Many basketball players use their fame, money, and connections to start businesses after they retire from sports. Here are five of the richest basketball players who have become successful entrepreneurs:
Basketball Players To Entrepreneurs: Here are 5 Great Examples!
1. Michael Jordan:
Michael Jordan, known as the greatest basketball player ever, is also one of the wealthiest sports stars turned businessman.
He owns the Charlotte Hornets NBA team and has a big partnership with Nike for the Air Jordan brand, which makes billions in sales each year. Jordan has also invested in many businesses, like car dealerships, restaurants, and esports, which have grown his wealth even more.
2. LeBron James:
LeBron James, a world-famous basketball player, has turned his success on the court into many business ventures. He owns a share of SpringHill Entertainment, which makes popular TV shows and movies and co-founded Uninterrupted, a sports media company.
He has invested in Blaze Pizza, which has grown quickly with his help, and is also a part-owner of the Liverpool soccer club, which shows his wide range of interests.
3. Magic Johnson:
Magic Johnson is known not just for his basketball skills but also for his business moves. After retiring, he started Magic Johnson Enterprises, which includes movie theaters, restaurants, and a share in the Los Angeles Lakers.
He also owns part of the Los Angeles Dodgers baseball team and invests in areas like esports, healthcare, and finance, showing his wide-ranging business skills.
4. Shaquille O’Neal:
Shaquille O’Neal, famous for his powerful play on the court, is also a successful businessman. He has invested in many companies, including tech startups, food chains like Papa John’s and Auntie Anne’s, and real estate.
Shaq also has his line of products, from shoes to gym equipment, and often appears in commercials to promote his brand, using his big personality to grow his business empire.
5. Kobe Bryant:
Before his sudden death in 2020, Kobe Bryant was building a strong business career. He started Kobe Inc., a company that focused on sports, media, and technology. His investment firm, Bryant Stibel, put money into companies like BodyArmor, an energy drink brand that Coca-Cola later bought for a huge profit.
He also created award-winning content, such as the Oscar-winning animated short film “Dear Basketball,” showing his talent in both business and creativity.
Final Thoughts:
These basketball players have shown that the skills they use on the court—like leadership, planning, and hard work—can also help them make successful businesses.
Their stories help other athletes and entrepreneurs to explore different ways to build wealth and make an impact after their sports careers are over.
FAQ:
Q. How is Michael Jordan a successful entrepreneur?
A. He owns the Charlotte Hornets NBA team, has a huge deal with Nike for the Air Jordan brand, and invests in businesses like restaurants and car dealerships.
Q. How to be a successful basketball player?
A. Practice regularly, improve your skills, stay fit, work well with your team, and have a strong mindset.
Q. How hard is it to become a professional basketball player?
A. It is very hard; only a few make it because it requires exceptional talent, hard work, and dedication.
Q. How does Michael Jordan make money?
A. He makes money from his team ownership, the Air Jordan brand, investments, and endorsements.
