NBA commissioner David Stern was instrumental in Marv Albert becoming the new voice of the Nets on YES, according to sources.

Around the time Albert and the Knicks parted ways last June, Stern pointed out Albert’s Brooklyn roots to new Nets owner Bruce Ratner.

Stern mentioned that bringing in Albert might be helpful for the Nets’ proposed move to Brooklyn.

“The commissioner did mention to Mr. Ratner that Marv was from Brooklyn, but doesn’t think he was the first one to call that to his attention,” said Mike Bass, an NBA spokesman.

Albert said he did not know about any Ratner-Stern connection, but did acknowledge a strong relationship with the commissioner.

“David has always been very supportive,” Albert said.

Albert, who turns 64 in June, will call 50 games starting next season. While YES and Albert declined to give particulars of the deal, Albert’s contract is believed to take him through the proposed move to Brooklyn in either 2008 or 2009.

Ian Eagle, who has broadcast Nets games for the past 11 years, will be limited to 30 games.

“I am really delighted that Ian will be able to continue,” said Albert, who has not spoken with Eagle since the situation first arose.

Albert, in an attempt to tame any perception that he stole Eagle’s job, emphasized that the Nets approached him first. Ratner’s statements supported that point-of-view.

For Eagle, although the moves were – as Albert might say – “not what he had mind,” he chose not to lash out.

“It will be the best of both worlds,” Eagle said. “I’ll stay on with the Nets. This new schedule will allow me some flexibility to take on other assignments.”