Stephon Castle, the NBA's reigning Rookie of the Year and a 6-foot-6 guard for the San Antonio Spurs, has become one of the youngest professional sports owners by joining the ownership group of CT United, a new soccer franchise in Connecticut competing in Major League Soccer's developmental second division, Next Pro [1]. Castle's involvement began when his agent, Joe Smith, and his father, Stacey, presented him with the investment opportunity last year, shortly after Castle finished his first NBA season [1]. Andre Swanston, one of the few Black majority team owners in North American professional sports, invited Castle to join the group, leveraging Castle's connection to Connecticut, where he won an NCAA championship in 2024 during his lone collegiate season [1].
Castle's minority ownership stake in CT United became official in December, making him a rare example of a young athlete investing in team ownership while still on his rookie contract. Unlike other NBA stars such as LeBron James, James Harden, and Kevin Durant, who entered sports ownership as established veterans, Castle is only 21 and a rising star [1]. The exact percentage of Castle's ownership stake was not disclosed [1].
CT United began its inaugural season this month, and Castle's Spurs teammates, many of whom are soccer fans, quickly learned about his new role, sparking friendly banter within the team [1]. Castle's agent, Joe Smith, noted that while athlete investment in teams and brands is increasingly common, Castle stands out for his forward-thinking approach and focus on legacy, traits evident since his high school days [1].
The article highlights the growing trend of NBA players investing in soccer franchises, referencing previous investments by LeBron James (Liverpool), James Harden (Houston Dynamo), and Kevin Durant (Philadelphia Union and Paris Saint-Germain) [1]. However, Castle's early entry into ownership sets him apart, as he is still on his rookie contract and has not yet reached veteran status [1].
CONCLUSION
Stephon Castle's minority ownership in CT United marks a significant milestone, positioning him as one of the youngest pro sports owners and reflecting a broader trend of NBA stars investing in soccer franchises. While the market impact is medium, Castle's unique early involvement and focus on legacy may inspire other young athletes to pursue similar opportunities. The exact financial details of his stake remain undisclosed.