Two-time NBA MVP, NHL star join ownership group of MLS's Nashville SC

MLS's Nashville SC confirmed that one-time NBA champion Giannis Antetokounmpo and his brothers Thanasis, Kostas and Alex acquired a minority ownership stake in the club.

"My father was a professional soccer player, and it was the first sport I fell in love with in Greece," Antetokounmpo said in a statement. "I've always had the dream of owning a soccer team. When my brothers and I explored Nashville SC, we knew it was a team and a city that we wanted to get involved with."

While NBA fans may wonder why Milwaukee's Antetokounmpo is investing in Nashville, MLS fans are acutely aware of soccer's potential in the Music City. Nashville SC's GEODIS Park is the largest soccer-specific stadium in the United States, and the club ranked fourth in the league for average attendance in 2022 — not bad for an expansion franchise in its third season. The organization is nearly profitable, noting just $5 million in losses in the 2022 season, and has immense potential to grow in value.

Much of that growth may come from Nashville SC's young players. The franchise runs a best-in-class academy to support Tennessee's youth soccer initiatives and bring new sporting talent to the state. 

"When you look at other territories in MLS, the state of Tennessee is one of, if not the least populated territories of players who have matriculated into MLS," general manager Mike Jacobs told the Nashville Post. "So the challenge we have is to take this territory that traditionally has not had a lot of players who have grown into MLS prospects and be able to turn that around."

Antetokounmpo is joined on the leadership team by NHL star Filip Forsberg. Forsberg has spent 10 years in Nashville with the Predators and is the top scorer in the team's history.

"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. "Our city is one big family and fanbase, and we support each other on and off the field. Nashville SC has been such a great addition to our sports culture."

Nashville SC kicked of their 2023 MLS season with a rousing home win over NYCFC. They'll aim to continue that form this Saturday in New Jersey against the New York Red Bulls — a match you can be sure Antetokounmpo and Forsberg will be watching.

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