In a move that follows a growing trend among American sports figures, Golden State Warriors’ head coach Steve Kerr has decided to invest in European soccer, specifically in 107-year-old Real Mallorca.
The decision places him in the company of other notable sports personalities who have ventured into the world of soccer ownership, creating an intriguing blend of basketball and soccer.
Joining Real Mallorca’s Ownership
Steve Kerr’s decision to buy a stake in Real Mallorca has connected him with his former Warriors assistant and Hall of Fame player, Steve Nash, who became a Mallorca shareholder in 2016.
Kerr’s entry into Mallorca’s restructured ownership group, led by team president Andy Kohlberg, symbolizes the cross-sport collaboration and the blending of business and sportsmanship.
Acquiring the Stake
Kerr’s stake in the club is part of a change in ownership following the departure of the former majority stakeholder, Robert Sarver.
The previous owner faced hostile workplace claims and accusations of racism, leading to his sale of the club.
Kerr’s friendship with Kohlberg played a significant role in this new investment opportunity, marking a new chapter for Mallorca.
Kerr’s Vision and Enthusiasm
The 57-year-old nine-time NBA champion seems enthusiastic about this new venture.
Having watched a match in Mallorca and become a fan, he expressed excitement about supporting the team and taking on this ownership role.
The club celebrated his arrival by showcasing his illustrious championship history.
Trend of American Sports Figures in European Soccer
Kerr is far from the first American sports personality to invest in European soccer.
Others include LeBron James with Liverpool, Tom Brady with Birmingham, and Mike Piazza with A.C. Reggiana.
While some have found success, like James, others like Piazza faced challenges that ended in disappointment.
Kerr’s entry into this arena will be watched with keen interest.
Real Mallorca’s Performance and Kerr’s Future Plans
Real Mallorca, which finished ninth in La Liga last season, is off to a 0-1-1 start in this campaign.
Meanwhile, Kerr remains engaged in his coaching responsibilities with the Warriors and is preparing to coach the US men at the FIBA World Cup.
His dual roles as an NBA coach and European soccer club owner provide an intriguing storyline in both the basketball and soccer worlds.
Conclusion
Steve Kerr’s decision to buy into Real Mallorca adds another layer to the evolving relationship between American sports and European soccer.
It’s a move that reflects a growing trend, symbolizes the interconnectedness of sports across different continents, and adds an interesting dynamic to the world of sports investment.
As both basketball fans and soccer enthusiasts follow Kerr’s new journey, it will be fascinating to see how his influence impacts Real Mallorca and whether this trend among American sports figures continues to grow.
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