LeBron James recognizes the significance of his new position. He’s the first Black part-owner in the Fenway Sports Group.
There’s only one Black principal owner in the four major sports: Michael Jordan, who owns the Charlotte Hornets; there’s a handful of Black minority owners, with James and Carter joining the likes of Derek Jeter (Marlins) and Patrick Mahomes (Royals). And considering the Boston Red Sox were the last team to integrate in July 1959, James’ spot with his business partner Maverick Carter is all the more important.
“For me and for my partner Maverick to be the first two Black men to be a part of that ownership group in the history of that franchise — I think it’s pretty damn cool,” James said Wednesday during a press conference. “It gives me and people that look like me hope and inspiration that they can be in a position like that as well.”
LeBron James on becoming a part-owner of the Boston Red Sox: "For me and for my partner Maverick [Carter] to be the first two black men to be a part of that ownership group in the history of that franchise — I think it's pretty damn cool." pic.twitter.com/QdqfNQLqce
— Liam Martin (@LiamWBZ) March 17, 2021
James’ MLB fandom is a bit complicated, as he’s clearly a fan of the New York Yankees and the Cleveland Indians — and the L.A. Dodgers. Not only is he diversifying his business ventures, but he’s also adding another pro baseball team to root for.
