What do all of theses Black athletes turned successful entrepreneurs all have in common? More than you think…let’s explore!
#1. LeBron James: A Winner’s Mindset
As rare of a generational talent as they come, LBJ is coming up on two decades as an NBA superstar. However, it is widely known that off the court “The King” carries much of the same winning attitude as a decorated businessman. For starters, James is the founder of the I Promise School in his hometown of Akron, Ohio which opened in 2018, to uplift youth in the community. He has also served as executive producer on several major films via his Springhill production company and has recently been reported as an official billionaire! With that said, it’s safe to say the “Kid From Akron” is just getting started with this business thing! And we can’t wait to see what’s on the horizon.
#2. Shaquille O’Neal: Always Looking To Improve
You cannot talk about “Big Diesel” without saying Dr. Shaquille O’Neal! That’s right, the former All-Star center is a jack of all trades. Including earning a Ph.D. degree in Education from Barry University. Since his NBA tenure, Shaq has flourished as a business owner. To his credit, he currently owns 155 Five Guys Burgers restaurants, 17 Auntie Anne’s Pretzels restaurants, and nine Papa John’s franchise units. He has also served as a regular TNT, ESPN, and sports show analyst over the last decade.
He currently holds a net worth of $400 million in his diverse career portfolio.
#3. Serena Williams: Clearly Defined Goals
As one of the most recognized faces in the world of tennis, Serena Williams continues to defy the odds. The younger Williams sister has also always been a stark advocate and supporter of women’s empowerment. And continues to lead by example. For instance, her company Serena Ventures launched in 2014 and has since invested in over 61 companies. All entities that she feels are in the business of helping improve, inspire and change people’s lives every day.
#4. Stephen Curry: Self-Driven
Recently crowned “King Of The 3-Point Shot” Steph Curry rarely ever misses his mark! In addition to the 2X MVP’s many endorsement advertisements, the multi-faceted Curry is involved in a flurry of other ventures.
In 2017, the Golden State alum formed a new company, SC30, which manages his investments, brand partnerships and philanthropic ventures. As of late, has invested in a variety of companies such as Oxigen, Tonal, and Unanimous Media.
Needless to say, it will be interesting to see what Curry and crew will do next!
#5. Magic Johnson: Preparation & OpportunityEarvin “Magic” Johnson has had one of the most prosperous post NBA careers of his generation. A true inspiration, many thought he would simply bow out after retiring in 1991. However, the All-star point guard did just the opposite. The list is endless for his impressive endeavors, but some of them include investment company Magic Johnson Enterprises and ownership in brands like Burger King, Starbucks, various gyms, movie theaters and more. According to Fox Business, as of 2020, Johnson has stakes in life insurance company EquiTrust, and is also part-owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers just to name a few. We see you Magic!
Every day Black athletes continue to educate themselves on, not only maximizing their professional sports careers, but also leveraging them into successful entrepreneurial endeavors. As they continue to do so, from college athletes signing NIL deals to seasoned veterans branching into unexpected industries, it will be great to see how far Black athletes continue to go.
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