NBA star and Poway resident Jimmy Butler buys minority stake in San Diego Wave
Dante Ulanday - News Moderator 
NBA star and Poway resident Jimmy Butler has become a minority investor of the San Diego Wave FC, it was announced Monday.
In a statement, Butler said, “Soccer has been a passion of mine for a long time, and being part of the game in a meaningful way has always been a dream. San Diego has become a city close to my heart, and I’m proud to invest in a club that is pushing boundaries, building something lasting, and setting a new standard for what women’s sports can be both on and off the pitch.”
The announcement comes as the club, which joined the National Women’s Soccer League four years ago, clinched a 2025 NWSL playoff berth. Butler, a six-time NBA all-star and Olympic gold medalist, is entering his 15th NBA season with the Golden State Warriors beginning Tuesday.
“Jimmy is a competitor and visionary who shares our values and our ambition to grow this club,” said Lauren Leichtman, controlling owner of San Diego Wave. “He brings a global perspective, a deep respect for the athlete’s journey and a creative spirit that perfectly complements what we are building here at Wave FC.”
Beyond basketball, Butler is the founder of BIGFACE and has invested across multiple industries including sports, lifestyle and wellness, according to the club.
City News Service contributed to this article.
