Athletes Who Own Sports Teams

The professional sports world isn’t just about competition on the field, it’s also a thriving business arena. Increasingly, athletes are leveraging their fame, fortune, and competitive drive to become team owners, translating their on-field successes into boardroom triumphs. A recent addition to this growing list of athlete-owners is Angel Reese. The star in women’s basketball has recently made headlines by purchasing a soccer team. Let’s take a look at some other notable athletes who owned sports teams before her. 

Read More: Rap Or Go To The League: How The NBA Embedded Itself In Hip-Hop’s DNA

LeBron James

LeBron James is often regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. He is also a prominent figure in the world of sports ownership. Beyond his illustrious NBA career, James is one of the most influential athletes with significant investments in various sports teams. In 2021, he became a partner with Fenway Sports Group. This position allows him to have part-ownership stakes in Fenway Sports Group’s ventures. These ventures include: The Boston Red Sox (MLB), Pittsburgh Penguins (NHL), Liverpool FC (Premier League), and RFK Racing.  

Patrick Mahomes

The dynamic quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs, Patrick Mahomes, has quickly become one of the most influential players in the NFL. His success on the field is often highlighted by three Super Bowl victories and three MVP awards. However, he is matching this success by his business acumen off the field. Mahomes’ investments evidently reflect his deep connection to Kansas City and his desire to contribute to the local sports community. His diverse portfolio includes the Kansas City Royals (MLB), Kansas City Current (NWSL), Miami Pickleball Club (MLP), Sporting Kansas City (MLS), and most recently, the Alpine Racing Team (F1).

Read More: Patrick Mahomes Picks The Dallas Mavericks Making the NBA Finals Over The Minnesota Timberwolves

Naomi Osaka

Naomi Osaka, global tennis sensation and four-time Grand Slam champion, has made significant strides in sports ownership. She joins the list of athletes with stakes in sports teams after her investment in the North Carolina Courage, an NWSL team. Osaka’s investment is particularly noteworthy given her multicultural background and her commitment to social justice causes. By owning a stake in the North Carolina Courage, Osaka aims to use her platform to promote diversity and inclusion within sports. She also has stakes in the Miami Pickleball Club (MLP).

Kevin Durant

Known for his scoring ability and versatility on the basketball court, Durant is another one of several athletes who own sports teams. In 2020, he became a minority owner of the Philadelphia Union (MLS). He subsequently invested in the NY/NJ Gotham FC (NWSL), as well as the Brooklyn Aces (MLP). Durant’s investments show his interest in expanding his business portfolio and bringing a fresh perspective to the team.

Giannis Antetokounmpo

Giannis Antetokounmpo, the “Greek Freak” and NBA MVP, has also expanded his horizons by becoming a minority owner of the Milwaukee Brewers. He invested in the Major League Baseball (MLB) team in 2021. Antetokounmpo’s decision to invest in the Brewers highlights his deep connection to Milwaukee. It comes as no surprise though, because he has played there his entire NBA career. Moreover, he also became a part-owner of Major League Soccer club Nashville SC.

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Myles Garrett

NFL star Myles Garrett is another one of many athletes who own sports teams. He’s popular for his dominant presence on the field and has also entered the realm of sports ownership. However, Garrett is also part of the ownership group for the Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA) and the Texas Ranchers (MLP).

Angel Reese

The latest star in the roster of athletes with stakes in sports teams is Angel Reese. The basketball star and personality is known for her tenacity, leadership, and impressive stats. Now, Reese has now added another title to her resume: soccer team owner. In a bold move, she acquired a stake in the DC Power Football Club, a professional women’s soccer team. Her involvement is expected to bring increased visibility and resources to women’s sports. This will, in turn, foster the development of women’s soccer and inspire young athletes.

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7 Pro Athletes Who Ran for Political Office

The pipeline from sports to politics in America is more popular than one might think. Indeed, several sportsmen have taken the leap from the field into the backbone of U.S. affairs. From the popular bodybuilder turned Governor, Arnold Schwarzenegger to NBA All-Star-turned-Mayor, Kevin Johnson, many former athletes have found another career in politics. Surely, that won’t end in the future, as former pro-wrestler-turned-actor, Dwayne Johnson, has been at the center of political talks recently. On that note, we’ve outlined a list of former pro athletes who have also stepped foot in politics at one time or the other. 

Read More: 5 Rappers Who Have Run For Political Office

Jim Bunning

athletes in politics
UNITED STATES – APRIL 01: CHANGING REGULATION OF FREDDIE MAC/FANNIE MAE/FHLBS–Sen. Jim Bunning, R-Ky., during the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs markup of legislation to create an independent regulator to oversee Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. (Photo by Scott J. Ferrell/Congressional Quarterly/Getty Images)

Jim Bunning was an American legislator for 24 years, first serving in the House of Representatives and then the Senate. He was well known for his Republican, conservative views while in office. However, long before pivoting to politics, Jim Bunning was one of the most feared athletes in baseball. He played as a pitcher for top teams in the MLB including the Detroit Tigers and Los Angeles Dodgers. 

As an acknowledgment of his contribution to Baseball, Jim Bunning was inducted into the Baseball Hall Of Fame in 1996. According to the Hall Of Fame, the pitcher enjoyed 17 years playing in the big league. He finally settled down as a politician following his tenure in the MLB. Senator Bunning was also involved in the union activities of the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA). Perhaps this was the precursor to his fulfilling political career. 

Arnold Schwarzeneggar

athletes in politics
Governor-Elect Arnold Schwarzenegger during California Governor Elect Arnold Schwarzenegger Holds Post Election Press Conference at Century Plaza Hotel in Century City, California, United States. (Photo by Steve Grayson/WireImage)

Arnold Schwarzenegger is popular for many reasons, specifically for starring roles in the Terminator series, but he also used to be a professional sportsman. Additionally, he won the most prestigious bodybuilding competition in the world, the Mr. Olympia, seven times. After gaining fame as one of the most famous athletes in bodybuilding, however, he went on to have an illustrious acting career, before venturing into politics. 

In 2003, after having become successful as an actor, Arnold Schwarzenegger became the governor of California through a recall election. Moreover, he served in this post for eight years. In that time, he also achieved a good number of reforms, including environmental legislation. According to a report by the National Governors Association, his government was instrumental in signing legislation to reduce California’s greenhouse emissions in 2006. 

Read More: Arnold Schwarzenegger Condemns Trump, GOP Members After Capitol Riot

Bill Bradley

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JANUARY 29: Former Presidential candidate and former three-time US Senator (NJ-D) Bill Bradley visits Fox Business Network’s “WSJ At Large” exclusive coverage at Fox Business Network Studios on January 29, 2020 in New York City. (Photo by John Lamparski/Getty Images)

Bill Bradley is well known as a senator who focused on tax reforms. But before he became a senator, he was a basketball player. Senator Bradley played for the New York Knicks for about 10 years. After retiring from the sport in 1977, he wasted no time in running for office. Bill Bradley’s political ambitions reached the highest political seat in America — presidency. He ran against the incumbent president, Al Gore, for the Republican party seat. He, however, did not emerge victorious. Reaching great heights in both sports and politics, Bradley was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2007. 

George Weah

athletes in politics
DOHA, QATAR – NOVEMBER 21: President of Liberia George Weah during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Group B match between USA and Wales at Al Rayyan Stadium on November 21, 2022 in Doha, Qatar. (Photo by Harold Cunningham – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

George Weah dominated the world of soccer, playing for teams like Monaco, Chelsea, and Manchester City. Soon after, he achieved a stellar career in Liberian politics, becoming one of the most renowned athletes to make a successful pivot. The former African Footballer of the Year became incumbent President of Liberia in 2018. Weah will leave office come January 2024.

Kevin Johnson

WASHINGTON, DC – JANUARY 23: (AFP OUT) Mayor Kevin Johnson of Sacramento, California introduces U.S. President Barack Obama during an event for the U.S. Conference of Mayors in the East Room of the White House on January 23, 2015 in Washington, DC. The conference marks the 82nd meeting of the U.S. Conference of Mayors. (Photo by Kristoffer Tripplaar – Pool/Getty Images)

Kevin Johnson had a successful career in the NBA with the Phoenix Suns, as well as with the Cleveland Cavaliers. However, he left the basketball scene in 1998, deciding to pursue a career in public service. He remains one of the most famous former athletes in politics. In 2008, Johnson ran for the position of mayor in Sacramento, California, his hometown, and won. This achievement also made him the first African-American mayor of Sacramento. Moreover, Johnson was re-elected to this post in 2012, eventually serving until 2016. 

Heath Shuler

athletes in politics
UNITED STATES – SEPTEMBER 14: Rep. Heath Shuler, D-N.C., speaks during the Blue Dog Coalition news conference on the debt and the Joint Committee on Deficit Reduction on Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2011. (Photo By Bill Clark/Roll Call)

Heath Shuler had a fulfilling NFL career where he played as a quarterback for about three years. The future US representative played for the Redskins and New Orleans Saints. Upon retiring from the NFL in the nineties, Heath Shuler focused on his real estate company for a while. Soon after, in 2006, he ran for Congress and became the representative for North Carolina’s 11th Congressional District. In this role, he was proactive and even challenged Nancy Pelosi for the post of minority leader. Heath Shuler eventually announced his resignation in 2012. Shuler is one of the most famous former NFL athletes who had a stint in politics.

Jack Kemp

Former Representative Jack F. Kemp during the announcement of his nomination to the Cabinet post of H.U.D. Secy. (Photo by Cynthia Johnson/Getty Images)

Jack Kemp is another former athlete whose political ambitions also reached the executive arm of the federal government. He ran as the Republican nominee for Vice President in 1996 alongside Bob Dole, the former presidential aspirant. Before running with Bob Dole, however, Jack Kemp was a US Representative for almost two decades. During his tenure, he was popular for tax reform and supply-side economics. 

As a professional football player in the 50s and 60s, Jack Kemp played for the Buffalo Bills in the American Football League (AFL). He originally tried to get into the NFL but to no avail. Senator Kemp eventually ran for office in 1970, and that began the political story of one of the most renowned former athletes to succeed in politics in America’s history. Kemp passed away in 2009.

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Shaq Doubles Down On His Status As The Greatest Athlete Rapper, Still Shows Love To Damian Lillard

NBA Legend, entrepreneur, DJ, rapper, TV personality, the list of Shaquille O’Neal’s occupations is incredible. His reputation precedes him and he is one of the most likable celebrities and people on the planet. While Shaq is certainly one of the greatest NBA players ever, he believes he is the best at one of his other many talents. In an interview with TMZ Sports, Shaq talked about a few topics, one of which is his rapping career. For those who do not know, when he was dunking all over his opponents, he was also bodying beats. A year after he was drafted by the Orlando Magic, The Diesel was rapping on the side.

His first full project, Shaq Diesel, was put out in 1993. Then, just a year later, he released Shaq-Fu: Da Return. That album boasted impressive features from Method Man, Redman, and others. It took a while before getting back into it, but, lately, he has been a DJ for the past few years. He also dropped a fire verse with California rap duo, Coyote in early September. With all of this experience and abilities, he believes he is the best athlete-rapper of all time.

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Here Is Proof Of Shaq Being The Best Athlete-Rapper

In the interview, Shaq acknowledges plenty of other athlete-spitters including Damian Lillard. However, when he hears others chattering about other talents, he needs to remind everyone who is the G.O.A.T. “It’s all competition for me, so when I hear other people that say, ‘I’m a better athlete-rapper than Shaq,’ I gotta step up.” He continues, “I know who the number one is. Ima always say myself is number one, but they got a lot of the guys out there that are coming.”

What are your initial thoughts on Shaquille O’Neal saying he is the best rapper from any professional sport? If you disagree, who do you think is better than him? What is your favorite Shaq track? We want to hear what you have to say about all of this. With that in mind, be sure to leave all of your thoughts and opinions in the comments section below. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest breaking news around Shaquille O’Neal and the rest of the sports and music world.

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Athletes Who Have Franchised Restaurants

Generally, when you think of athletes, you only think of the sports they play. However, many invest in brands and deals to diversify their financial portfolio. For that reason alone, many athletes own franchises in the food industry. We have sports stars with their own restaurants, but today we are here to discuss franchise owners. You may recognize a few faces as they are constantly associated with these companies. Additionally, you may be unaware that these athletes are so invested in the food industry. 

Peyton Manning: Papa Johns

MIAMI GARDENS, FL – FEBRUARY 02: Peyton Manning #18 of the Indianapolis Colts looks on during Super Bowl XLIV Media Day at Sun Life Stadium on February 2, 2010 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Scott Halleran/Getty Images)

Peyton Manning is one of the most recognizable faces for one of America’s top pizza chains. Manning was once a spokesperson for Papa John’s and would go on to star in many commercials for the company. He owned 31 Denver-area locations from 2012 to 2018. He said about his business venture: “It’s a smart investment now and will be long after I’m done playing football.” As of 2018, Manning cut ties with the company for reasons unknown, but the speculated reasons come from the controversy of Papa John’s founder John Schnatter.

Dree Brews: Jimmy Johns and Dunkin’

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – OCTOBER 25: Drew Brees #9 of the New Orleans Saints reacts against the Carolina Panthers during a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on October 25, 2020 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)

Brees retired as the New Orleans Saints quarterback in 2021. However, the football star has made significant investments in franchises over the years. Making a big name for himself, Brees has a wide-ranging portfolio of franchises that he has invested in. Those franchises include Jimmy John’s, Dunkin’, Five Guys, and many others. He has a total of nine Jimmy John’s restaurants and 69 units of Dunkin’. More recently, Brees has invested in 85 Everbowl locations and is co-owner and partner of Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux.

Vernon Davis & Mohamed Sanu: Jamba Juice

RICHMOND, VIRGINIA – APRIL 02: Former NFL player Vernon Davis and honorary pace car driver speaks to the media during a press conference prior to the NASCAR Cup Series Toyota Owners 400 at Richmond Raceway on April 02, 2023 in Richmond, Virginia. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)

Both players have invested in the company Jamba Juice, and each has several locations. Vernon Davis, former Washington Redskins tight end, owns five locations in Northern California and another in Northern Virginia with Mohamed Sanu. The latter also partnered with Davis to be a franchisee for Jamba Juice. Both have expressed the importance and value of franchising a business. 

Davis had this to say about Jamba Juice: “Jamba Juice is an iconic brand that, like me, cares about helping others live a healthier, higher quality life.” Further, “I honestly couldn’t be more excited about partnering with Mohamed, expanding my relationship with Jamba Juice and, of course, bringing more of the fresh fruit and vegetable goodness of Jamba to my hometown.”

Sanu added, “Over the past decade or so, pro athletes have become a rising presence in the franchise world. We’re executors who are comfortable working within the confines of an established system and executing a playbook. Like an athlete, a franchisee has to come in and execute the game plan.”

Kris Brown: Dunkin’

DALLAS, TX – FEBRUARY 04: NFL player Kris Brown of the Dallas Cowboys attends The Black Eyed Peas Super Bowl Party presented by Sports Illustrated and Bacardi at Music Hall At Fair Park on February 4, 2011 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Tiffany Rose/Getty Images for Capital A)

Brown is a retired NFL player who was a member of the Dallas Cowboys. He decided to switch to franchising, particularly with Dunkin’. He has territorial rights for markets in Omaha and Kansas City. Additionally, Brown is currently the owner and CEO of the Berlin Group. It is a franchisee group that owns 12 Dunkin’ locations throughout the Midwest and is set to have 21 locations total in the future.. 

In an interview with Insider, Brown said, “Going from sports to franchising was a natural transition.” He added, “There are a lot of qualities you must have to succeed as an athlete. You have to know how to work and work hard, but running a franchise is really about following the operational manual, which tells you, ‘This is how to run the business.’”

Cory Stillman & Don Davey: Firehouse Subs

RALEIGH, NC – MARCH 03: Cory Stillman #61 of the Carolina Hurricanes poses for a headsot prior to an NHL game against the Buffalo Sabres on March 3, 2011 at RBC Center in Raleigh, North Carolina. (Photo by Gregg Forwerck/NHLI via Getty Images)

Cory Stillman was a former NHL Carolina Hurricanes player who has invested in owning Firehouse Subs. His first location opened in 2016 in Whitby, Ontario. Former Jacksonville Jaguars star Don Davey also invested in Firehouse Subs, but much earlier than Stillman. Davey would open his first location in 2002. Stillman currently owns three locations, all in the Ontario area. Davey would grow to have 10 more sites since. At the moment, Davey owns 12 locations in Central Florida and three in Wisconsin and — with his team — manages an area that includes 14 independent franchises all over Wisconsin.

Final Thoughts

Investing in franchises is the best financial move for many athletes. They tend to lean toward those that hold value to them and their family. Athletes who have franchised restaurants seem happy and decide this was the best move. Many more athletes should consider making this business move as a positive investment. 

Top 9 Athletes With The Biggest Net Worth

From Soccer to Boxing to Basketball, there are a lot of wealthy players. And while some have since retired, they still have a lot of money to flex and spend. Here is a list of the top 9 athletes across all fields that have the biggest net worths, ranging from Shaquille O’Neal to Michael Jordan. We’ve also included some of the reasons as to why they have become so rich over the years. Some of these entries might even surprise you.

9- Shaquille O’Neal – $450 million

Shaquille O’Neal used to play basketball in the NBA for 19 years. He is now retired and talks about basketball as a sports analyst. The net worth of this top tier athlete is $450 Million Dollars. Shaquille O’Neal won 4 championships and received 15 All-Star selections. He was famous for his personality and also acted and rapped.

Also, he has done a lot out of his field . He has been a successful investor. O’Neal has had successful deals and collaborations with Icy Hot and Gold Bond. He has supported organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, the Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles.

8- Cristiano Ronaldo – $500 million

When you listen to Cristiano Ronaldo, the only thing that comes to mind is discipline and class. Cristiano is an amazing athlete and there is no doubt to say him as the only one in the world. Cristiano being the best athlete has a net worth of $500 million, which is largely due to his success on the soccer field, as well as his numerous endorsement deals with major global brands. Ronaldo has played for world’s top soccer clubs, including Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus. 

Currently , he is playing for Saudi Arabia. He has won numerous league titles, domestic cups, and international honors throughout his career. He has also won five Ballon d’Or awards. Ronaldo has also been highly successful off the soccer field, with numerous endorsement deals with brands like Nike, Tag Heuer, and Herbalife. Overall, Cristiano Ronaldo’s success both on and off the soccer field has helped him amass a fortune.

7- Roger Federer – $550 million

Currently, Roger Federer is ranked third in men’s singles tennis and he is a professional tennis player from Switzerland. Being a great athlete, he remained no.1 in the world for consecutive 6 years. This athlete has a net worth of $550 million dollar. He made collaborations with Rolex, Mercedes-Benz, and Credit Suisse. He also has his own line of sneakers with Nike, called RF

Roger Federer has won 20 Grand Slams throughout his career. He has won many open titles . Federer has won eight Wimbledon titles. He has a deal with Japanese clothing brand Uniqlo .Federer does a lot of charity work. He helps kids go to school in Africa and Switzerland through his foundation called the Roger Federer Foundation.

6- Kobe Bryant – $600 million

Kobe Bryant was a retired American basketball player and businessman. Bryant was an amazing athlete and had a net worth $350 million when he passed away in 2020 because he was successful in basketball and business. Bryant played for the Los Angeles Lakers for 20 seasons and won five championships. He was known for his scoring ability, work ethic, and competitiveness. He also won two Olympic gold medals representing the United States.

Outside of basketball, Bryant had several business ventures, including a production company, venture capital fund, and multimedia content company called Granity Studios. Although Bryant’s death in a helicopter crash in 2020 was unexpected and saddened many of his fans, his legacy as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. Him being a successful businessman had made him one of the wealthiest athletes in the world.

5- Magic Johnson – $620 million

A great Athlete from his starting, Ervin ( Magic ) Johnson is a famous basketball player. He played basketball and is now a businessman. Johnson has 6200 million because of his basketball career and businesses. Magic Johnson played for the Los Angeles Lakers for 13 years. He won five championships and was a great passer and leader. Overall, Magic Johnson is very successful in basketball and business. He has a lot of money and is one of the richest athletes.

Off the court, Magic is a successful businessman. He is the CEO of Magic Johnson Enterprises. It includes movie theatres, restaurants, and youth centres. He also owns parts of sports teams like the LA Dodgers and Sparks. Magic is also a philanthropist. He helps with HIV/AIDS awareness and education. He announced in 1991 he had HIV and supports research.

4- LeBron James – $1 Billion

LeBron James, who is a four-time NBA champion and widely considered one of the greatest athlete players of all time. He has a net worth of $1 Billion, which is largely due to his success on the basketball court. Throughout his career, he has played for Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, and Los Angeles Laker. The most great performances that he did were for the Cleveland Cavaliers.

LeBron is known for his all-around skills and ability to play multiple positions on the court. Off the court, James has been highly successful as a businessman, with investments in media companies like SpringHill Company. He also owns a production company called Uninterrupted. Also , has his own line of sneakers with Nike, called LeBron James.

3- Tiger Woods – $1.1 Billion

Tiger Woods, considered as one of the greatest golf players in the World. Being a legendary athlete, he has not only won games but also the hearts of people around the world. He has a net worth of $1.1 Billion dollars. He has such a great net worth because of his major success in golf courses.  Furthermore, his lucrative endorsement deals with various brands. Woods has won a total of 82 PGA Tour events.

His wins are equal to the Athlete, Sam Snead. Woods has been the world’s highest-paid athlete several times throughout his career. Accordingly, earning tens of millions of dollars in prize money, appearance fees, and endorsements each year. Tiger Woods has been very successful in golf and in other areas, which has made him very rich and one of the wealthiest athletes in the world.

2- Floyd Mayweather Jr. – 1.2 Billion

Floyd Mayweather Jr. was a famous American professional boxer who is considered one of the best boxers ever. He has a lot of money – about $450 million! This money came from his boxing career and also from deals.  He promotes products and fights for which he receives significant payment.Mayweather won many championships in five different weight classes . He fought against some of the most famous boxers in the world, like Manny Pacquiao and Conor McGregor.

Moreover, being an athlete, Mayweather didn’t just box, he also made money from other things like his own company called The Money Team. He was also in some movies and TV shows and even wrestled professionally.

1- Michael Jordan $2.1 billion

Michael Jordan is an American basketball player who retired in 2003. He is an amazing athlete and his performances were upper class during his play. People consider him one of the greatest basketball players in the world. His net worth is $2.1 Billion Dollars. He has this high net worth only because of his high success in his career. During his NBA career, Jordan played for the Chicago Bulls and the Washington Wizards. Jordan won six NBA championships for his team. 

Jordan has earned the honor of being recognized as one of the most influential players in the basketball field due to his significant influence as a player. He was also the most paid basketball player in his time. He earned thousands and hundreds of dollars during his career. Moreover, he also had high class in business. He collaborated with Nike. Made his own line of shoes called Nike Air Jordan. It was the most profitable and highly successful endorsement of all time .

Athletes That Have Gone Into Hollywood

The athlete to actor pipeline is real. Many popular sports stars go onto star in films and some of them even have genuine acting careers. While the line between actor and musician is and always has been blurry, the line between athletic person and actor is getting more blurry by the day.

More and more athletes move into Hollywood and they’re also doing it more successfully. Here are a few of the top examples.

Dave Bautista: Former athlete with genuine acting ability

Dave Bautista is a former WWE star, but pretty soon he’ll be known only as an actor. He’s taken quite the career turn and proved that he has real talent. The Guardians of the Galaxy star has anchored the comedy of those and other Marvel films since 2014, but he’s also got an incredible dramatic side.

Viewers saw a little bit of it in a brief role in Blade Runner 2049, where he gave his role the brevity and depth it demanded. Bautista once shared that he hoped he would one day be remembered for his versatility.

“She said, ‘Lee’s amazing, Lee [Pace] can do anything.’ I can remember the way she said that with such confidence, and I want people to say that about me. I want people to speak to me in those regards: ‘Dave can do anything,’ and that’s what I want to be my legacy. Not even a specific character, I just want to leave behind a legacy that Dave could do anything, he did any genre.”

Dave Bautista via TooFab

He would also star in the M. Night Shyamalan thriller Knock at the Cabin. The movie wasn’t a hit critically, but Bautista’s acting drew praise.

Juancho Hernangomez and Anthony Edwards: Actors to watch?

Netflix hasn’t always put out the best movies, but they tried it once more with Adam Sandler and a bunch of basketball players. That’s a huge risk in and of itself. Sandler can act, as he’s proven a few times, but NBA stars? What made Netflix think they could carry a film?

With Hustle, two NBA stars acted opposite each other as rivals- Juancho Hernangomez and Anthony Edwards. Edwards, the runner-up to Rookie of the Year in 2020, was the antagonist to Hernangomez’s undiscovered gem.

Both brought real acting ability to the screen. Hernangomez played a struggling basketball player balancing his real life responsibilities and fears with a dream of playing in the NBA.

Edwards was his bitter rival, and he played the role so well it made audiences wonder if he was this cruel in real life. Neither are probably going to foray into Hollywood full time right now, but either one probably could.

Ray Allen is still Jesus Shuttleworth

Ray Allen is a retired NBA star and he hasn’t done much in the film industry. However, in 1998, he starred opposite Denzel Washington in He Got Game. Washington is a titan of industry and many believe him to be one of the best actors of all time.

Allen was up for the challenge and that alone proves his acting mettle. To further cement that, Allen went on to play and be an all-time three-point shooter in the NBA for 17 more seasons after the movie. Nevertheless, he’s still known as Jesus Shuttleworth to this day.

It certainly helped that the role was similar to Allen’s expertise and it drew on things he had experienced, but acting alongside Washington successfully is a feat nonetheless.

Dwayne Johnson: Athlete to movie star

There are real arguments that Dwayne the Rock Johnson can’t really act, but the former WWE star has charisma on screen at the very least. It’s true that he often plays very similar characters, but that’s not a problem for Ryan Reynolds, so it’s not one for Johnson either.

In terms of former athletic stars who went into acting, no one has had as many big movies as Johnson. The former wrestler has starred in:

  • Black Adam
  • DC League of Super-pets
  • Jungle Cruise
  • Jumani: Welcome to the Jungle
  • Jumanj: The Next Level
  • Moana
  • Skyscraper
  • Furious Seven
  • Baywatch
  • Pain & Gain
  • Tooth Fairy
  • Get Smart

Johnson has been in a lot of major movies and that’s not going to change any time soon. He may not be winning any awards, but he’s got one of the best careers of a former athlete in this industry.

Tom Brady: Acting future?

Tom Brady is arguably the greatest athlete to ever play football, but could he have a future in acting? He’s already made a few forays into the industry and could have more on the way.

He made a cameo in Ted 2 and was the subject of the recent film 80 for Brady. He hasn’t really tested his acting chops in anything yet, but the groundwork for a future career in Hollywood is certainly there.

John Cena: The best former wrestler to act?

John Cena is arguably the best actor that used to be a wrestler. The former athlete has established himself as a genuinely good actor with range. The actor come a long way from being the father on the Fred movies.

He’s been in major franchises like Dwayne Johnson has, even starring in F9: The Fast Saga in the franchise Johnson joined a few years prior. He’s also been in the DCEU like Johnson, with the latter playing Black Adam.

In that universe, Cena was Peacemaker. His turn in The Suicide Squad (2021) showed his comedic timing, but he offered a more dramatic portrayal in the spin-off show.

He also starred in Blockers, Daddy’s Home 2, The Wall and Trainwreck. He’s got a nice career for himself and has the brightest future in Hollywood.

Several athletes have moved from a sport to the set, and these are so far the best of the best. Which sports stars will join them in the future?