NBA athletes transitioning into ownership isn’t something new. The likes of Shaquille O’Neal and Grant Hill own a minority stake in Sacramento Kings and Atlanta Hawks, respectively. But, it doesn’t compare to the much bigger piece Michael Jordan has with the Charlotte Hornets.
His Airness is the only former NBA player to be the majority owner of an NBA team. This gives some hope to the current generation of league athletes. One of which is Steph Curry.
Watch What’s Trending Now!
Getty
PARIS, FRANCE – JUNE 12: In this handout image provided by Jordan Brand, Michael Jordan paid a visit to Palais 23 this afternoon on Friday June 12, Joined by his frequent partners-in-design Tinker Hatfield and Mark Smith, key figures in the 30-year evolution of the Air Jordan, Jordan has returned to Paris to mark the 30th anniversary of 1985’s Air Jordan One. Palais 23 is a spectacular tribute to the shoes, moments, designs and artifacts that have shaped the 30-year evolution of the Air Jordan. (Photo by Jordan Brand via Getty Images)
The Golden State Warriors superstar is one of the most prosperous basketball players today. According to sportac, he is making $43 million this season and due to make about $45.8 million in 2021-22. His worth is estimated to be around $130 million.
In a conference call with reporters, he divulged more on this topic –
“I don’t have a specific plan but I follow a lot of the conversations and some of the ways that former players kind of approached those opportunities. You see, like, Grant Hill, Shaq, and other guys that have really put in the time and effort and done their homework and put themselves in a position to realize that dream.”
Getty
HAYWARD, CA – AUGUST 09: NBA player Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors tees off on the ninth hole. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
As previously said, the likes of Shaq and Grant Hill have done an impeccable job of putting themselves in a position to have a minority stake in an NBA team. His own coach Steve Kerr was once a 1% owner of the Phoenix Suns. But he would wish to aim even higher.
“Obviously, MJ is the ultimate example. It’s definitely interesting. It’s enticing, but a long way to go,” said Curry.
Would Michael Jordan be able to buy the Hornets in the current scenario?
According to NBA insider J Adande, the former Chicago Bulls star is lucky to own an NBA team. While Jordan bought the Hornets for close to $200 million back in 2010, any NBA team doesn’t cost less than a billion these days.
Getty
CHARLOTTE, NC – NOVEMBER 5: NBA Legend and Charlotte Hornets Owner, Michael Jordan looks on during a game between the Indiana Pacers and the Charlotte Hornets on November 5, 2019 at Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Brock Williams-Smith/NBAE via Getty Images)
It is because when Steve Ballmer bought the Clippers, he reset the market. The Hornets themselves are valued at around $1.5 billion. So, yes, it would be tough for MJ to hold a majority stake in the NBA today. Undoubtedly, it will be even tougher for Curry. But let’s see how far he goes.
Read More – Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James: Who Wins the Battle of Money?
