Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James trended for a vicious dunk against the Houston Rockets on Monday. But now a potential future venture seems to be looming over them.
James's dream of becoming an NBA owner suffered a major setback on Wednesday. James' partnership with Fenway Sports Group is eyeing Las Vegas for a new expansion franchise. But according to Joe Warden and Mike Vorkunov of The Athletic, FSG is ready to expand.
Price is a big factor, with the expected cost "reportedly demanding an expansion fee of up to $8 billion per team."
This still leaves a major dent in James' ownership vision as the league continues expansion talks.
What's next for Lakers' LeBron James amid ownership blowback?
The Athletic further noted how "FSG was long expected to be James' primary financial backer in his stated desire to own an NBA team." But the sudden move makes it "less likely" that James will pursue franchise ownership.
Fenway Sports Group has partnered with James with the Miami Heat since 2011. The group owns the Boston Red Sox of the English Premier League and soccer club Liverpool.
James's net worth is estimated at $1.4 billion, leading fans to believe that he has enough wealth to own a team. But if he continues to own a sports franchise he will need to join a team of investors.
The four-time NBA champion would also have to retire to run the ownership. The 41-year-old James is currently unsure about playing in 2026-27.
