Kevin Durant’s investment portfolio expanded again today through an investment in Gotham FC of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).
Durant and Thirty Five Ventures (35V) partner Rich Kleiman joined the club as minority investors, becoming the third group of investors to take a stake in the club since March.
“As a New York-based company, the opportunity for us to partner with a forward-thinking team like Gotham FC was a no brainer,” said 35V co-founder Rich Kleiman in a statement. “There’s been so much growth in the NWSL in recent years, and the chance to be a part of that growth and work directly with the Gotham FC executive team and players is really exciting.”
Investing in soccer and women’s sports isn’t new to the company as they have firmly committed to helping both grow.
They’ve invested in media network Just Women’s Sports and have a strategic partnership with pro sports league Athletes Unlimited. Durant and Kleiman serve as board members of the latter as well.
In June of 2020, the company acquired an ownership stake in the Philadelphia Union of Major League Soccer (MLS).
Their new stake in Gotham FC also includes partnership elements such as, according to the release, “content creation, social media support, player relations, and community outreach.”
Women’s sports have continued to grow, and it’s being noticed and supported by athletes and businesses who want to positively contribute to its current wave of success.
“This is another big step forward for our franchise,” said Ed Nalbandian, Managing Owner, Gotham FC.
“Bringing in Kevin, Rich, and 35V as investors is a huge statement about the positive trajectory of our club,” said Tammy Murphy, Club Chair, Gotham FC. “The level of enthusiasm they’ve displayed has been above and beyond anything we could have anticipated. We have tremendous aspirations this year both on and off the field and, together with 35V’s support and resources, we’re going to make sure New Jersey and New York hear all about it!”
The team hosts its first home game on May 14th at Red Bulls Arena against the North Carolina Courage.
