From MVP to VC: Giannis Antetokounmpo invests in the future of women’s basketball – Essence

Giannis Antetokounmpo doesn’t just dominate on the court – he proves he can play off the court too.

The Milwaukee Bucks star and two-time MVP officially entered the enterprise capital arena with the launch of Build Your Legacy Ventures (BYL). This recent fund is about greater than just business – it’s about creating opportunities and making a difference, especially in spaces that are not at all times in the highlight. Antetokounmpo is kicking off her profession with one other dunk: investing in women’s basketball.

One of BYL Ventures’ inaugural investments is changing the rules of the game: Matchlessan expert women’s 3-on-3 basketball league co-founded by WNBA stars Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart. Designed to elevate women’s basketball through a faster, more dynamic format, the league aligns with Antetokounmpo’s vision to rewrite the playbook in sports and entertainment.

“This fund is not just about capital; it’s about building partnerships and opening networks to accelerate companies’ growth trajectory.” Antetokounmpo said in a release. “I want to help other entrepreneurs, especially those who have faced barriers, grow and succeed.” With BYL Ventures, it doesn’t just offer financial support – it opens its network and provides mentorship to founders, especially those from underrepresented communities.

Women’s sports have long faced an uphill battle when it comes to visibility and investment. By supporting Unrivaled, Antetokounmpo is sending a transparent message: it is time to level the playing field. The league goals to redefine the perception of women’s basketball by specializing in innovation, excitement and opportunity for athletes.

This is not Antetokounmpo’s first foray into the business world. He previously invested in the Milwaukee Brewers, Nashville SC, and even began his own film production company, Improbable Media. But BYL Ventures represents something larger – a possibility to use its platform to encourage the next generation of changemakers, on and off the field.

For Black women who consistently drive culture and innovation in every space, seeing someone like Antetokounmpo amplify women’s sports is critical. His investment in Unrivaled just isn’t nearly financial support; is a commitment to make women’s basketball more visible, more respected and more impactful.

In addition to investing in Unrivaled, Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Build Your Legacy Ventures also made a seed investment in Candy playhouseonline store known for its big selection of nostalgic and trendy sweets. This unexpected move highlights Giannis’ eye for diverse, consumer-centric opportunities that bring joy to on a regular basis moments.

Giannis Antetokounmpo has at all times been interested in greater than just basketball. Whether it’s leading the Bucks to a championship or constructing a business empire, his journey is a testament to what can occur when talent meets purpose. BYL Ventures and its first investment in women’s basketball show us that Antetokounmpo is not just constructing a legacy — he’s ensuring others, especially women, can construct theirs too.