Full Breakdown
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Joins Atlético Madrid Ownership Group
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event – NBA Star Becomes Part-Owner of Spanish Club
On October 8, Atlético Madrid announced that Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has joined the club’s ownership group. The Canadian guard, a two-time NBA Most Valuable Player and 2025 NBA champion, acquired a minority stake, though the size of the investment and the financial terms were not disclosed. The move adds Gilgeous-Alexander to a growing list of North-American athletes holding equity in European football clubs.
Background & Context – Growing NBA Presence in European Soccer
In recent years, several high-profile NBA players have diversified into soccer ownership. LeBron James became a part-owner of Liverpool through Fenway Sports Group in 2011. Kevin Durant took minority stakes in Paris Saint-Germain, the Philadelphia Union and NY/NJ Gotham FC. Russell Westbrook joined the Leeds United ownership group via 49ers Enterprises, while Giannis Antetokounmpo invested in Chelsea Women and Nashville SC. Gilgeous-Alexander’s entry follows this trend, reflecting both personal interest in the sport and the appeal of international brand expansion.
Data & Statistics – Club Achievements and Player Accolades
- Atlético Madrid: 11 La Liga titles (the club’s official record), 10 Copa del Rey trophies, three UEFA Europa League championships, and three UEFA Champions League final appearances. The team currently sits second in La Liga behind Barcelona.
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: NBA champion (2025), back-to-back NBA MVP awards (2025, 2026), NBA Finals MVP (2025), and a four-year, $285 million contract extension beginning with the 2026-27 season. During the 2025-26 season he averaged 31.1 points per game on 55.3 % shooting, becoming the first guard to average at least 30 points while shooting 55 % or better.
Official Statements & Responses – Club and Player Remarks
Gilgeous-Alexander expressed enthusiasm for the role, noting his respect for Atlético’s historic presence in European football and his desire to contribute to the club’s future.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This is a club with a long-standing presence at the top of European football, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of its future,” — Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, of NBA champion
- “I’m excited to officially join Atlético de Madrid’s ownership group.” — Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, of NBA champion
- “Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has joined Atlético de Madrid’s ownership group,” — Atlético Madrid
- “I’m excited to officially join Atlético de Madrid’s ownership group. This is a club with a long-standing presence at the top of European football, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of its future,” — Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, of NBA champion