When we think of those who own both minor or major shares in a pro sports franchise, we often think of hugely rich billionaires. But, in fact, there are a bunch of highly known big celebrities that actually have some real shares of pro sports teams. Here are five of them.
1. Michael Jordan
(source: espn.go.com)
One of the absolute best players in NBA history is now one of the owners of one of the best up and coming teams. Jordan made headlines a few years back when it was revealed he was one of the minority shareholders of the new Charlotte Bobcats team. Now, a few years (and a rebrand) later; Jordan is actually the majority shareholder of the Charlotte Hornets. He is one of the few athletes out there with the funds available to be the majority shareholder of a major team.
2. Justin Timberlake
(source: nesn.com)
Timberlake is a true entertainer in every sense of the word. From acting to sing to dancing, this guy can do it all. Well, as of 2012, you can add sports franchise owner to his list of accomplishments. Timberlake has been a huge fan of the Memphis Grizzlies for years and when Robert Pera purchased the team, Timberlake was named as a minority partner in the deal.
3. Will Smith
(source: billboard.com)
Of all of the actors out there, perhaps none are better than Will Smith. The guy doesn’t seem to make a bad movie and is revered among critics and peers alike. Though, his taste in sports teams isn’t so flawless. Smith has been a lifelong fan of the Philadelphia 76ers and in 2011, he became a minority owner of the team. While they are currently going through some struggles on the court, it is pretty cool that Smith is an owner.
4. Magic Johnson
(source: usatoday.com)
As much as Magic Johnson was amazing, crafty and resourceful on the court, his business choices off the court have been just as good. Johnson has had numerous successful business ventures in his years since retiring from the NBA and this includes being part of the team that recently purchased the Los Angeles Dodgers. In addition to this, Johnson owns a ton of Starbucks franchises and also owns the Los Angeles Sparks and a future soccer team in Los Angeles.
5. Gene Simmons
(source: loudwire.com)
This is probably one of the strangest examples on this list and the only one that doesn’t involve a pro sports franchise in a major league. Simmons was probably the most famous member of the rock band Kiss, one of the most popular bands of all time. He and band mate Paul Stanley actually purchased an expansion team in the Arena Football League and in 2014, the L.A Kiss were born. Yes, they named the team after their band. The game days are also very similar to a concert with electric guitar, pyrotechnics and the Kiss logo is seen all over the place.
