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NFL Player Bobby Wagner Invests in WNBA's Seattle Storm, Citing Kobe Bryant's Impact on Women's Sports

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Bobby Wagner, a Super Bowl champion and nine-time Pro Bowler, is making history by becoming the first active NFL player to acquire ownership in one of the WNBA's franchises. Wagner, now a minority owner of the Seattle Storm, expressed his enthusiasm for the venture, citing his admiration for Kobe Bryant's support for women's sports. As Wagner heads into his 14th NFL season, he's endeavoring to follow Bryant's lead in growing women's sports, highlighting the importance of being a part of positive change.

Key Takeaways:

  • Bobby Wagner, a Super Bowl champion and nine-time Pro Bowler, is a minority owner of the WNBA's Seattle Storm, becoming the first active NFL player to acquire ownership in one of the league's franchises.
  • Wagner cited Kobe Bryant's impact on women's sports as a key inspiration for his investment, noting that Bryant's business moves and support for the WNBA helped shape his decision.
  • Wagner has been a Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year nominee in each of the last two years, showcasing his commitment to philanthropy and community outreach.
  • Wagner's ownership stake in the Storm is part of his effort to shape the future of women's sports, with his daughters and sisters serving as motivators for his involvement.
  • Wagner has been guided by Magic Johnson, a minority owner of the L.A. Sparks and a fellow member of the Commanders' ownership group, who offered his advice and congratulations before and after the ownership process.

Statistics:

  • 13 consecutive seasons with 100-plus tackles, a streak that Wagner started as a rookie in 2012.
  • 10 Pro Bowl selections, including one with the Commanders in 2024.
  • 2 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year nominations in 2023 and 2024.

Sources:

  • "Commanders' Bobby Wagner on ownership stake in WNBA's Storm: 'I want to be on the right side of change'" by the National Football League (nfl.com/news/commanders-bobby-wagner-on-ownership-stake-in-wnba-s-storm-i-want-to-be-on-the-right-side-of-change)

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