In a groundbreaking move that bridges the worlds of basketball and soccer, NBA superstar Kevin Durant has become a minority shareholder in French football giant Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). The investment was facilitated through Durant’s firm, Boardroom, which reportedly invested a “single-digit millions” amount via a financial vehicle established by Arctos Sports Partners, according to The Athletic.
Arctos Sports Partners acquired a 12.5% stake in PSG earlier in 2023, valuing the club at €4.25 billion (approximately $4.65 billion). Durant’s entry into the PSG ownership group signifies a strategic partnership that transcends traditional sports boundaries.
Durant, a two-time NBA champion and Finals MVP, visited PSG’s state-of-the-art training facility in Poissy after securing a gold medal with Team USA at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris on August 10. During his visit, he met with PSG President Nasser Al-Khelaifi, alongside his manager and Boardroom co-founder Rich Kleiman, to discuss the investment and shared visions for the future.
“It was an honor to welcome Kevin Durant to the Campus today and to witness his passion for Paris Saint-Germain and his recognition of the excellent sports facilities at our new PSG Campus training center,” Al-Khelaifi commented. “Kevin is an inspirational athlete, investor, and all-around role model, both on and off the pitch. We are extremely proud of his connection to the Paris Saint-Germain family as we share the same values and vision. We look forward to strengthening our ties and working together with Kevin and Boardroom to bring the best in sport and entertainment to fans around the world.”
This investment marks a significant expansion of PSG’s relationship with prominent figures from the basketball world. The club has collaborated with Michael Jordan’s iconic Jordan Brand for over five years, blending sports and fashion in innovative ways.
Durant’s move into international soccer ownership reflects a growing trend of athletes leveraging their platforms and capital to invest in diverse sports ventures globally. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this cross-sport partnership will evolve and impact both basketball and football landscapes.
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NBA superstar Kevin Durant becomes minority shareholder of PSG
cgtn.com
