NBA Star Jimmy Butler Joins San Diego Wave as Minority Investor

NBA star Jimmy Butler has become a minority investor in the San Diego Wave, a National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) club. Butler, a six-time NBA All-Star and Olympic gold medalist, expressed his passion for soccer and connection to San Diego, highlighting his pride in investing in a club advancing women's sports both on and off the field. The Wave, owned by Lauren Leichtman and her family since 2024, recently secured a playoff berth and have made significant changes including hiring a new coach and emphasizing young international talent. Butler joins former U.S. women's national team forward Alex Morgan, also an investor, reflecting a growing trend of prominent athletes investing in women's soccer. His involvement brings a global perspective and entrepreneurial spirit, complementing the club's ambition to set new standards for women's sports. The San Diego Wave continues to build momentum in the league and aims to capitalize on its recent successes in the upcoming playoffs.