When news broke that football legend Lionel Messi was making his move to the United States, Giannis Antetokounmpo, the basketball titan, was one step ahead in foreseeing the League Cup final encounter as the minority owner of Nashville SC
In March 2023, Nashville FC unveiled Antetokounmpo as a member of their ownership collective and to join him were his brothers, Thanasis, Kostas, and Alex, all professional basketball players in their own right. The brothers’ father, Charles Antetokounmpo, formerly a professional football player, nurtured a deep-rooted love for the sport.
Nashville SC Giannis Antetokounmpo ownership structure, owner details and net worth in 2023
“I’ve always had the dream of owning a soccer team,” said Giannis Antetokounmpo. He spoke of his father’s influence and his own affection for the sport during his formative years in Greece.ย
Leading scorer in Nashville Predator history Filip Forsberg and two-time MVP and NBA Champion Giannis Antetokounmpo have joined the teamโs ownership group.
Antetokounmpo is joined in ownership by his brothers Thanasis, Kostas and Alex as well โ all of whom play professional basketball worldwide and Thanasis joined Giannis in winning the NBA Championship with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2021, and Kostas won one with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020.
Celebrity Net Worth claimed that Giannis has a net worth of 70 million dollars, thanks to his salary with the Bucks but also his endorsement deals, like the ones he has with Nike and WhatsApp.
โMy father was a professional soccer player, and it was the first sport I fell in love with in Greece,โ Giannis Antetokounmpo said. โIโve always had the dream of owning a soccer team." #FearTheDeer || #EveryoneN
— Bally Sports Wisconsin (@BallySportWI) March 2, 2023
The star-studded Nashville FC ownership consortium expanded further than the Antetokounmpo brothers. Hollywood actress and producer Reese Witherspoon and NFL running back Derrick Henry also added their names to the roster.ย
Nashville, let's get it๐๐พ๐ช๐พ๐ช๐พ pic.twitter.com/hE0L6uqfLF
— Giannis Antetokounmpo (@Giannis_An34) August 19, 2023
Nashville FC’s history dates back to its entry into MLS in 2020. While the team’s journey has been relatively short, it hit a high point in 2021 with a commendable third-place finish in the Eastern Conference. This achievement, bolstered by 12 wins, four losses, and 18 draws, solidified Nashville FC’s presence on the soccer scene.
Turning the spotlight back on Antetokounmpo’s basketball career, he stands tall as a seven-time All-Star, a two-time MVP, and a defensive juggernaut. His accolades extend to one championship, one Finals MVP, and a position on the prestigious NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team.
Currently, in the midst of a lucrative five-year, $228.2 million contract with the Bucks, Antetokounmpo’s earnings are poised to reach $335.2 million by the end of his current deal. Antetokounmpo’s net worth is estimated at $70 million in 2023.
Welcome to the MLS Messi!! See you at Nashville๐ฅ๐
— Giannis Antetokounmpo (@Giannis_An34) June 7, 2023
In June, the Milwaukee Bucks star welcomed Messi to Major League Soccer, hinting that their paths would cross in Nashville. Fast forward two months and Antetokounmpo’s prediction came to fruition as Messi’s Inter Miami squared off against Nashville SC in the Leagues Cup final on August 19.
As the Leagues Cup final unfolded, the anticipation was electric. Antetokounmpo’s presence was palpable as he rooted against the iconic Messi for the first time in his life.ย
Adding to the drama, he displayed his enthusiasm by engaging in dramatic celebrations, even recreating Cristiano Ronaldo’s signature ‘siiuuu’ celebration after a goal.
The intense contest between Nashville SC and Inter Miami showcased the passion within the football world. Inter Miami emerged triumphant after an exhilarating 11-round penalty shootout.
ALSO READ: Leagues Cup 2023 winner, prize money, awards winners list, and golden boot