While it might seem unbelievable at the moment, LeBron James could soon be the owner of a new NBA franchise.
The Los Angeles Lakers star is still very much enjoying his playing days, but has eyes on his retirement.
Basketball journalist and analyst Rick Bucher has stated that as soon as the current TV contracts expire, both Seattle and Las Vegas will have their own NBA franchises.
This will increase the number of teams from 30 to 32, always adding even numbers to balance the conferences. Seattle has long been rumored to be returning to the NBA, with the city’s last franchise in the NBA, the Seattle SuperSonicsdisappearing in 2008.
Meanwhile, James could become the owner of a franchise in Vegas. With the future Hall of Famer becoming the second NBA player to own a team in the league itself, following in the footsteps of the legendary Michael Jordanwho owns the Charlotte Hornets.
James, a player with an entrepreneurial mind
While James is still focused on his playing career with the Los Angeles Lakersthe 37-year-old has always had an eye for the business world.
Not only is James a shareholder in several companies across different sectors, but he is also a minority owner of sports teams, such as Liverpool and the Boston Red Sox.
LeBron has already stated on an episode of The Shop that he wants a team in Las Vegas, with him as the owner.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver has already said that the league would expand at some point, and he would love to see Seattle and Las Vegas as the two cities that are selected.
“They’re two wonderful markets,” Silver said.
“We were in Seattle, I’m sorry we’re not there anymore. And Las Vegas has proven to be a great sports market as well.”
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