African American ownership and executive leadership in professional sports have made significant strides across the NFL, NBA, MLB, and professional soccer
African American ownership and executive leadership in major professional sports have evolved significantly over the years, reflecting broader societal shifts towards diversity and inclusion. This article explores notable African American figures who have secured ownership stakes in the NFL, NBA, MLB, and professional soccer, highlights influential executives in these sports, and discusses the future landscape of African American ownership in professional athletics.
NFL: Breaking New Ground
In recent years, the NFL has witnessed a gradual increase in minority ownership. A notable development occurred when former NBA stars Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady, along with soccer player Jozy Altidore, acquired a minority stake in the Buffalo Bills. This consortium collectively owns about 4% of the team, marking a significant step towards diversifying NFL ownership. Their involvement aims not only at financial investment but also at inspiring and providing representation for minority groups in professional sports ownership.
Additionally, Earvin “Magic” Johnson expanded his sports ownership portfolio by investing $240 million in a group led by Josh Harris that purchased the Washington Commanders for $6.05 billion in 2023. This acquisition set a record for the highest price ever paid for a sports team and underscored Johnson’s commitment to diversifying sports ownership.
NBA: Pioneering Leadership
The NBA has been at the forefront of promoting diversity within its ownership ranks. Michael Jordan made history in 2010 by becoming the first former player to become the majority owner of an NBA team when he purchased the Charlotte Bobcats (now Hornets). Jordan retained majority ownership until 2023, when he sold his stake for approximately $3 billion, maintaining a minority interest thereafter.
Grant Hill, a former NBA All-Star, became a co-owner of the Atlanta Hawks in 2015. His involvement exemplifies the increasing trend of former players transitioning into executive roles and ownership positions within the league.
MLB: Steps Towards Inclusion
Magic Johnson’s influence extends to Major League Baseball, where, in 2012, he became part of an ownership group that purchased the Los Angeles Dodgers for $2 billion. This acquisition not only showcased Johnson’s business acumen but also highlighted the potential for African American leadership in MLB.
Professional Soccer: Expanding Horizons
The realm of professional soccer has also seen increased African American ownership. Magic Johnson co-owns Los Angeles FC (LAFC), a Major League Soccer team that began play in 2018 and clinched the MLS Cup in 2022. His involvement underscores the growing appeal of soccer among diverse investors.
Similarly, Grant Hill holds a part-ownership stake in Orlando City SC of Major League Soccer and Orlando Pride of the National Women’s Soccer League, reflecting his commitment to fostering diversity in soccer.
Influential African American Executives in Professional Sports
Beyond ownership, African Americans have made significant strides in executive roles across professional sports:
- Mannie Jackson: A former player turned executive, Jackson became the first African American with controlling ownership in an international sports team when he purchased the Harlem Globetrotters in 1993. His leadership revitalized the team and set a precedent for minority ownership in sports entertainment.
- Serena Williams: The tennis legend expanded her influence into sports ownership by joining the ownership group of the Toronto Tempo, the first Canadian franchise in the WNBA, set to debut in the 2026 season. Williams’s involvement is poised to elevate the profile of women’s basketball and inspire future generations.
The Future of African American Ownership in Professional Sports
The trajectory of African American ownership in professional sports is on an encouraging path. The increasing participation of African Americans in ownership and executive roles signifies a shift towards more inclusive representation. This trend is expected to continue as more athletes and business leaders leverage their platforms and resources to invest in sports franchises.
Educational initiatives and mentorship programs are also pivotal in preparing the next generation of African American executives and owners. Organizations like the Executive Leadership Council, co-founded by Mannie Jackson, play a crucial role in fostering leadership development among African American professionals.
Moreover, the visibility of African American owners and executives serves as inspiration for aspiring individuals, demonstrating that leadership positions in professional sports are attainable. As diversity and inclusion remain focal points in societal discourse, the sports industry is likely to see continued progress in minority ownership and leadership.
In conclusion, African American ownership and executive leadership in professional sports have made significant strides across the NFL, NBA, MLB, and professional soccer. Pioneers like Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Grant Hill, and Serena Williams have paved the way for future generations. The ongoing efforts to promote diversity and inclusion promise a future where leadership in professional sports more accurately reflects the diverse communities that support and engage with these leagues.