Giannis Antetokounmpo purchases minority stake in MLS club Nashville SC

NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo is expanding his business portfolio. On Thursday, the Milwaukee Bucks forward  acquired a minority stake in Major League Soccer club Nashville SC.

Antetokounmpo headlines a group of new investors. He partnered with his brothers: Thanasis, Kostas and Alex, in the ownership venture. Nashville Predators forward Filip Forsberg also purchased a minority stake in the team.

The terms of the deal were not disclosed. 

The Antetokounmpo brothers have a special soccer connection. They grew up around the game as their father, Charles, played professionally in Nigeria and Germany.

"I've always had the dream of owning a soccer team," Antetokounmpo said. "When my brothers and I explored Nashville SC, we knew it was a team and a city that we wanted to get involved with. I couldn't be more excited to join the Boys in Gold and can't wait to come to a match at Geodis Park soon!"

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Nashville SC was founded in 2017 and began it inaugural MLS season in 2020. The club has made an MLS playoff appearance each of its three years.

"Soccer is a global sport, and our newest owners once again reinforce our club's commitment to being a global team," principal owner John Ingram said in a statement. "Filip and Giannis are not just amazing athletes – they are ambassadors for their respective sports, role models for millions and advocates in their hometowns and worldwide."

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Nashville SC has an intriguing list of investors. Tennessee Titans star Derrick Henry and actress Reese Witherspoon, alongside her husband Jim Toth, also have a minority stake.

Forsberg, the Predators' leading scorer, became interested after attending a couple of Nashville SC games at Geodis Park. He grew up a Liverpool FC fan and wanted to support the professional teams in Nashville.

"Nashville is the best sports city in the country, and I am extremely blessed to now be involved with two of our pro teams," Forsberg said in a club statement. "Our city is one big family and fanbase, and we support each other on and off the field."