
via Imago
Dec 9, 2022; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Russell Westbrook (0) reacts to his three pointer against the Philadelphia 76ers during the second quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

via Imago
Dec 9, 2022; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Russell Westbrook (0) reacts to his three pointer against the Philadelphia 76ers during the second quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Recently, NBA superstar Russell Westbrook made a special appearance at the Championship opener between Leeds United and Cardiff City. As it could seem, this was not a casual visit for him to watch a soccer game. His presence was part of a larger deal that involved a significant investment in Leeds United by him.
Leeds United has become one of England’s most talked-about clubs over recent years. The team has been promoted back into a top-tier football club under head coach Marcelo Bielsa. Russell is involved in the club by the formation of a new ownership group.
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A $214 million investment in soccer
With an estimated net worth exceeding $200 million, Westbrook has made a significant investment to diversify his portfolio. He has joined the other high-profile NBA athletes who have invested in a sports team. His investment is part of a bigger deal worth $214 million, involving various stakeholders. There is Jordan Spieth, who has been the former number champion and there is another golf champion, Justin Thomas. This deal is significant, as it involves successful athletes diversifying their portfolios in the sports industry. Though a minor stake, Russell is making his presence felt in the club already.
Leeds United’s previous owner, Andrea Radrizzani, made a move when he decided to sell a stake in the club. For the new investors to join in. The 49ers Enterprises stepped up to acquire a substantial share of the club. Discussions with the San Francisco 49ers paved the way for Westbrook to secure a minor stake in the club; marking a point of another new beginning for his career beyond the NBA.
The match against Cardiff City served as the perfect backdrop for Westbrook to make his presence felt and show his support for the club.
Russell Westbrook at Elland Road watching Leeds United take on Cardiff City ⚽️ pic.twitter.com/hypNOylrku
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) August 6, 2023
Russell Westbrook was present at Elland Road in a match against Cardiff City. The match was a thrilling 2-2 draw.
Fans were surprised and thrilled to see Brook
As the photos from the stadium went viral, fans started flooding in with their reactions to social media posts. NBA Twitter was surprised, and they expressed their support for Brook’s investment in Leeds United.
One fan commented, “The biggest businessman in the NBA”, highlighting Russell’s strategic investments.
The biggest business man in the NBA
— KIN (@TheKinPod) August 6, 2023
Another fan reminisced about the humble beginnings of both Westbrook and Leeds United. They write, “Reminder that when Russell Westbrook was a rookie, Leeds United was still in the third tier of English football.”
Reminder that when Russell Westbrook was a rookie, Leeds United was still in the third tier of English football. (FYI, that's like the Double A in Baseball)
— Trần Ngọc Khải (@tedtran2001) August 7, 2023
NBA fan spotted in a soccer match
Liverpool vs Leeds 2023-24 FA Cup. pic.twitter.com/fafRyDgcib
— Trần Ngọc Khải (@tedtran2001) August 7, 2023
Another local soccer fan noted that “They need to promote the sport here more. Championship teams in Europe are better than anything MLS”.
They really need to promote the sport here more . Championship teams in Europe are better than anything MLS
— Prajwal Pai (@prajwal1402) August 7, 2023
NBA fans are all over…
Just for context, Leeds over the last 3 years has defended pretty much like the Huston Rockets…
— Lalo Ballamanca (@ballamanca) August 6, 2023
His appearance and virality during the event highlight the global reach and influence he is bringing to Leeds United. The club’s continuous growth, coupled with Russ’s star power, is already attracting new fans.
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