Washington Commanders linebacker and Super Bowl champion Bobby Wagner has joined the ownership group of the Seattle Storm, becoming the first active NFL player to hold equity in a WNBA franchise.
The Seattle Storm have emerged as one of the league’s most valuable franchises. Four-time WNBA champion and former Storm star Sue Bird joined the ownership group last year, and in June, the team reportedly sold minority shares at a $325 million valuation. The Storm also recently opened a $64 million training facility. Financial details of the deal were not disclosed.
“This is about more than basketball,” Wagner said in Wednesday’s announcement. “It’s about investing in a legacy of excellence, empowering women, and continuing to elevate the game for future generations.”
The 10-time Pro Bowler spent his first 10 seasons with the Seattle Seahawks and holds multiple franchise records. He is now entering his 14th season in the NFL.
Wagner follows a growing number of former and current professional athletes who are investing in sports teams, including Alex Rodriguez (Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx), Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City Royals), and Tom Brady (Los Angeles Raiders).
Storm co-owner Lisa Brummel called Wagner “a hometown hero” and praised his commitment to community and growing women’s sports. “He shares our desire to grow the game and knows the value and importance of investing in women’s sports. As we continue to build on the incredible legacy of the Storm franchise, we are excited to add Bobby’s experience and expertise to the mix.”
The WNBA is in a major growth phase, with three new expansion teams (in Cleveland, Philadelphia, and Detroit) set to bring the league to 18 franchises by 2030. A league source previously told Front Office Sports each team paid a record-high $250 million, up sharply from the $50 million fee paid by the Golden State Valkyries and Toronto Tempo.
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