LeBron James is staying ten toes down when it comes to his stance on owning an NBA team in Las Vegas.
As AfroTech previously told you, the basketball superstar hopes in his future retirement from the league, he can wear a new hat as an NBA team owner with his eyes set on Las Vegas.
He first publicly shared his desire during an episode of “The Shop.”
βI wanna own a team, I wanna buy a team for sure,β said James. βI would much rather own a team before I talk. I wanna, team in Vegas. I want the team in Vegas.”
“I want a team in Vegas.” π @KingJames hints at his next big move on an all new episode of #TheShop TOMORROW at 9 am PT on our YouTube! πΊ pic.twitter.com/HIZKsBYPGF
β UNINTERRUPTED (@uninterrupted) June 9, 2022
James is continuing to make his message loud and clear. On Oct. 5, during a post-game interview, James was asked about his thoughts on the Las Vegas atmosphere. He took the opportunity to send a message directly to the league’s commissioner, Adam Silver.
“You talked about wanting to have an NBA team in Las Vegas. You came here I remember, played against the Warriors. Tonight, you get a lot of love. They love you out here. What’s your thought on the atmosphere when you come out to Las Vegas and just how the fans respond to you out here?” James was asked in the post-game interview.
βItβs wonderful β itβs the best fanbase in the world and I would love to bring a team here at some point. That would be amazing,” James responded.
He continued: βI know Adam [Silver] is in Abu Dhabi right now, I believe β¦ But he probably sees every single interview and transcript that comes through from NBA players, so I want the team here, Adam. Thank you.β
Although expanding the league isn’t a pressing concern, James’ aspirations could come to fruition when the time is right.
As AfroTech previously mentioned, James is the first active NBA player to become a billionaire and this feat was supported by his ventures such as SpringHill Company, his stake in Fenway Sports Group ($90M), and Blaze Pizza chain ($30M), as well as other investments which total over $500 million. With his status, he may very well be positioned for his desires to be met, if the opportunity presents itself.
While he waits for his ownership dream to take root in the NBA, he did become a team owner for another sport. James tag teamed with Draymond Green to join an investment group for pickleball. Their involvement will elevate the sport across media, entertainment, and branding.