Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James has stated he no longer has any interest in becoming an NBA team owner, effectively ending his publicly expressed ambition to lead a potential expansion franchise in Las Vegas. James made the declaration following the Lakers’ 124-116 win over the Houston Rockets on Wednesday.
A Shift in Plans
For nearly a decade, James has voiced his desire to own an NBA team, specifically in Las Vegas. However, with the league poised to vote next week on evaluating Las Vegas and Seattle as expansion markets, James’ plans appear to have changed. When asked directly about his ownership aspirations, he responded, “No, I’m not. Not at all.”
The shift in James’ position coincides with a reported lack of interest from Fenway Sports Group (FSG), his business partner since 2011, in pursuing an NBA expansion team in Las Vegas. Sources familiar with FSG’s intentions indicated the firm is hesitant due to the anticipated cost, which could reach as high as $8 billion per team.
The Role of Fenway Sports Group
FSG, which owns the Boston Red Sox and Liverpool Football Club, was expected to be James’ primary financial backer. A source close to James stated that with FSG no longer pursuing ownership, it is “less likely that LeBron will pursue a team.” James became a partner in FSG in 2021, acquiring a 1 percent stake in the firm.
While James, with a net worth of $1.4 billion, has substantial personal wealth, it is insufficient to cover the expansion fee alone. Potential avenues involving investment from groups like the Saudi Public Investment Fund are limited by NBA rules restricting sovereign wealth funds to a 20 percent ownership stake.
What’s Next?
The NBA’s team governors are scheduled to vote on March 25 regarding the evaluation of Las Vegas and Seattle as potential expansion markets. If approved, the league will solicit bids from prospective ownership groups. Expansion requires approval from 23 of the league’s 30 team owners. James would likewise need to retire as a player to be eligible to launch a bid for team ownership and the timeline for a potential launch in the fall of 2028 may prove too tight.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did LeBron James say about owning a team?
LeBron James stated, “No, I’m not. Not at all,” when asked if he was still interested in NBA ownership.
Why is Fenway Sports Group’s decision significant?
Fenway Sports Group was expected to be James’ primary financial backer, and their decision not to pursue ownership in Las Vegas significantly diminishes the likelihood of James leading a bid.
How much could an NBA expansion franchise cost?
The league is reportedly seeking expansion fees as high as $8 billion per team, with recent franchise sales – the Boston Celtics for $6.1 billion and the Los Angeles Lakers for $10 billion – demonstrating a significant increase in team values.
Given these developments, what will be the future of NBA expansion, and will other potential owners emerge to pursue teams in Las Vegas or Seattle?
