Jayson Tatum is no stranger to making headlines. Fresh off a historic 2024 season that saw him lead the Boston Celtics to an NBA Championship, earn All-Star honors, win Olympic gold with Team USA, and sign a record-breaking $314 million contract extension, Tatum now has his sights set on a new challenge: bringing a WNBA franchise to his hometown of St. Louis.
Celtics Star Jayson Tatum Eyes $200 Million Bid to Bring WNBA Franchise to St. Louis
According to a report from Essence, the 26-year-old NBA superstar is preparing a $200 million bid to establish a WNBA team in a city known for its passionate sports fan base but currently lacking representation in women’s professional basketball.
The move follows a recent rule change in the NBA’s Collective Bargaining Agreement, which now allows NBA players to hold ownership stakes in WNBA franchises.
Tatum’s ambitions aren’t just about expanding his portfolio; they reflect a deeper commitment to fostering opportunities in women’s sports.
“This isn’t just about basketball,” Tatum reportedly told close associates.
“It’s about inspiring the next generation and building something meaningful for my community.”
St. Louis, a city that rallies fervently behind its sports teams like the Cardinals (MLB), Blues (NHL), and St. Louis City SC (MLS), offers a unique market for a WNBA expansion team. The proposed franchise would play at Chaifetz Arena at Saint Louis University, a venue well-suited for professional basketball.
Tatum isn’t undertaking this venture alone. He has partnered with local businessman Richard Chaifetz and real estate mogul David Hoffman, forming a powerful investment group. Together, they aim to present a compelling case to the WNBA as the league seeks to expand following its most successful season yet.
Anuj Talwalkar of Essentially Sports highlighted how the updated NBA-WNBA CBA has opened new doors for players like Tatum.
“This marks a shift in player influence and investment opportunities,” Talwalkar said.
“It’s a chance for NBA stars to contribute directly to the growth of women’s basketball.”
For Tatum, this bid is deeply personal. Growing up in St. Louis, he witnessed the city’s love for sports firsthand and wants to bring that energy to a WNBA team.
The move would not only fill a gap in the city’s sports offerings but also shine a spotlight on women’s athletics, paving the way for a new generation of talent and fans.
If successful, Tatum’s endeavor would represent a significant milestone for both the WNBA and professional sports as a whole.
By investing in the league’s future, Tatum is proving that his influence extends far beyond the court—a legacy that will inspire for years to come.
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