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From Jay-Z to Justin Timberlake, discover musicians who have invested in sports teams, shaping the intersection of music and athletics. See which artists hold stakes in major franchises.

Throughout the years, numerous musicians have expanded their influence beyond the recording studio and stage, venturing into the realm of sports team ownership. This trend not only showcases their diverse investment portfolios but also highlights a deep-rooted passion for sports. Below is an exploration of some notable musicians who have held stakes in sports teams.

1. Jay-Z

In 2003, renowned rapper and entrepreneur Jay-Z purchased a minority stake in the NBA's Brooklyn Nets. He played a pivotal role in the team's relocation from New Jersey to Brooklyn, contributing to the design and branding of the Barclays Center. However, in 2013, Jay-Z sold his shares to establish Roc Nation Sports, a sports management agency.

2. Justin Timberlake

Pop icon Justin Timberlake became a minority owner of the NBA's Memphis Grizzlies in 2012. A native of Memphis, Timberlake's investment was seen as a commitment to his hometown team, and he has been an active supporter, often attending games and participating in team events.

3. Usher

In 2005, R&B singer Usher acquired a minority ownership stake in the NBA's Cleveland Cavaliers. During his tenure as a part-owner, the Cavaliers secured multiple Central Division Championships and clinched the NBA Championship in 2016.

4. Macklemore

Seattle-based rapper Macklemore expanded his investment portfolio by joining the ownership group of Major League Soccer's Seattle Sounders FC in 2019. Demonstrating his commitment to his hometown's sports scene, he further invested in the NHL's Seattle Kraken in 2022.

5. Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith

In 2011, actor and musician Will Smith, along with his wife Jada Pinkett Smith, acquired a minority stake in the NBA's Philadelphia 76ers. Their involvement brought a touch of Hollywood to the franchise, and they have been spotted courtside supporting the team.

6. LeBron James

While primarily known as an NBA superstar, LeBron James ventured into music by founding the record label SpringHill Entertainment. In the sports domain, he holds a minority stake in Liverpool F.C., one of England's most storied soccer clubs, and has expressed interest in owning an NBA team in the future.

7. Jesse Itzler

Rapper and entrepreneur Jesse Itzler is among the ownership group of the NBA's Atlanta Hawks. His diverse career includes co-founding Marquis Jet and authoring best-selling books, showcasing a blend of artistic and business acumen.

8. Russell Crowe

Academy Award-winning actor and musician Russell Crowe took ownership of the South Sydney Rabbitohs, a professional rugby league team in Australia, in 2006. His involvement has been credited with revitalizing the club and increasing its prominence in the National Rugby League.

9. Becky G

Pop singer Becky G expanded her horizons by investing in Angel City FC, a National Women's Soccer League team based in Los Angeles. Her involvement underscores a commitment to supporting women's sports and promoting diversity in team ownership.

10. Snoop Dogg

Iconic rapper Snoop Dogg has shown interest in various sports ventures, including a bid to purchase the NHL's Ottawa Senators. His passion for sports is evident through his youth football league and frequent appearances at sporting events.

These examples illustrate the dynamic intersection between music and sports, where artists leverage their success to invest in teams, contribute to their communities, and diversify their portfolios. Their involvement often brings heightened visibility and unique perspectives to the sports franchises they support.