LeBron James added to his portfolio in a major way, joining the Fenway Sports Group. FSG owns the Boston Red Sox, though they also own some other interesting assets, including the NASCAR team Roush Fenway, NESN (sports cable network in New England, and Fenway Sports Management.
Maverick Carter—James’ long-time business partner and friend— also becomes a part-owner as part of the deal, per ESPN. It’s not clear what share the duo owns nor how much the businessmen paid for them. Fenway Sports Group just received a private investment from RedBird Capital Partners for $750 million for an 11% stake (though RBCP’s investment is pending MLB’s approval).
According to the latest Forbes rankings, the Red Sox are worth $3.3 billion (behind only the Dodgers and Yankees).
James had previously owned a 2% stake in Liverpool, which is also owned by FSG. The 4-time MVP previously spoke about his desire to own an NBA club once his playing career was over.
“I believe if I wanted to, I could own a team or be part of a basketball team,” James said in 2019. “I know I got so much knowledge of the game that I don’t want to – once I stop playing – get away from the game.”
“…It would have to be the right fit. It’d have to be the right city. It’d have to be the right situation. It’s not like it’s a dream of mine. It’s more of an aspiration. See if it happens. If it don’t, I won’t be disappointed in anything I’ve done off the floor. We’ll see what happens.”
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