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Athletes grow business empires beyond their sports careers

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 5, 2026, 6:16 PM

Last updated Oct 5, 2026

Athletes grow business empires beyond their sports careers

Summary

Athletes are transitioning into multi-platform entertainment brands, showcasing their influence beyond sports. Notable examples include LeBron James, who has built a vast business portfolio with partnerships and equity in ventures like Blaze Pizza and Liverpool FC. Travis Kelce is also expanding his brand, balancing a successful NFL career with multimedia projects and joint ventures with his brother. This evolution reflects a shift in how athlete representation operates, focusing on celebrity potential and brand building.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•LeBron James has a diverse business portfolio exceeding $80 million in endorsements in 2024.
•Travis Kelce is expanding into entertainment with SNL and podcasting ventures.
•Athletes are now signed by agencies for their potential as celebrities, not just athletes.
•Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson exemplifies the transition from sports to acting and entertainment.
•Kelce and his brother are jointly operating a brewing business called Garage Beer.

Latest Updates

6:16 PMYahoo Sports — Athletes Are Building Empires That Outlast Their Careers

What they're saying

"
When people think of big-name athletes like LeBron James, Tom Brady, Cristiano Ronaldo, Tiger Woods, and many others, they usually think first of their athletic ability. However, as the 21st century progresses, athletes have evolved into multi-platform entertainment brands. They represent more than just sports. For example, former Miami Hurricanes football player and WWE legend […] The post Athletes Are Building Empires That Outlast Their Careers appeared first on The Lead.
— Yahoo Sports

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