Bobby Wagner becomes first active NFL player to own stake in WNBA franchise

Bobby Wagner, an NFL player for the Washington Commanders, has become the first active NFL player to purchase an ownership stake in a WNBA franchise, the Seattle Storm. Wagner, a Super Bowl champion and 10-time Pro Bowl selection, joins the ownership group along with retired Storm player Sue Bird, former Microsoft executive Lisa Brummel, and Olympic silver medalist Ginny Gilder. Wagner's historic move into women's basketball was praised by Los Angeles Lakers great Ervin "Magic" Johnson.

Bobby Wagner, a Super Bowl champion and 10-time Pro Bowl selection for the Washington Commanders, has made history by becoming the first active NFL player to purchase an ownership stake in a WNBA franchise. Wagner has joined the Seattle Storm's ownership group, marking a significant milestone in the intersection of sports and business [1].

The Seattle Storm announced Wagner's acquisition of an equity stake in the team, making him a minority owner alongside retired Storm player Sue Bird, former Microsoft executive Lisa Brummel, and Olympic silver medalist Ginny Gilder. Wagner's involvement in the Storm's ownership group is part of a broader trend of NFL players investing in women's sports, with the aim of growing the game and empowering women in sports [2].

Wagner's decision to invest in the Seattle Storm is rooted in his deep connection to the city and his admiration for the team's off-court initiatives. He has been a fan of the Storm for years and has been inspired by their community involvement and commitment to women's basketball. Wagner's investment in the Storm aligns with his personal values and his desire to support women's sports [3].

The Storm's franchise has a strong history, winning four championships and making 19 playoff appearances in 25 seasons. The team's recent achievements, including the opening of the BECU Storm Center for Basketball Performance, a $64 million training facility, have positioned the Storm as a leader in the WNBA [4].

Wagner's entry into the ownership group has been praised by fellow sports legends. Los Angeles Lakers great Ervin "Magic" Johnson expressed his pride in Wagner's decision, highlighting the importance of investing in women's sports and the potential for growth in the WNBA [1].

Wagner's move into the ownership group is part of a broader trend of NFL players diversifying their investments. As athletes seek to build their legacies beyond the field, investing in sports franchises offers a unique opportunity to combine their passion for the game with their business acumen. Wagner's involvement in the Storm's ownership group is a testament to the growing importance of women's sports and the potential for significant financial returns [2].

References:
[1] https://www.commanders.com/news/bobby-wagner-minority-owner-seattle-storm
[2] https://www.foxbusiness.com/sports/commanders-booby-wagner-becomes-first-nfl-player-hold-equity-wnba-franchise
[3] https://storm.wnba.com/news/bobby-wagner
[4] https://www.newsweek.com/sports/nfl/commanders-vet-makes-history-landing-wnba-ownership-2103060