Esports is growing rapidly and so are the investors. Earlier this week 100 Thieves announced that Drake is now a co-owner of the organization, along with Scooter Braun. Today, Michael Jordan invests in Team Liquid’s parent company aXiomatic.
They’re the latest in a long line of celebrities to invest in esports. Back in 2016, Steve Aoki bought a majority stake in Rogue Gaming. Shaquille O’Neal is a co-owner of NRG. Ashton Kutcher, Steph Curry, and Rick Fox have also made investments in the industry. So where are Drake and Jordan putting their money?
Drake Now Co-Owner of 100 Thieves
One of the fastest growing esports organizations, 100 Thieves, recently completed its Series A funding with backing from Drake along with Scooter Braun, known for managing artists such as Justin Bieber and Ariana Grande.
It’s no secret that Drake is a gaming fan. Earlier this year, he helped set records on Twitch when he played Fortnite with the world’s biggest Twitch streamer Ninja.
100 Thieves was founded by ex Call of Duty pro Matthew “Nadeshot” Haag. The organization currently has players and teams in League of Legends, Fortnite, Call of Duty, and Clash Royale. They’re also a lifestyle and apparel brand- a facet that largely appealed to investors.
Michael Jordan Decides To Invest In Esports
Michael Jordan has also made a foray into the industry. The NBA legend was announced as one of the investors in aXiomatic- the parent company of Team Liquid.
It’s a sound investment. Team Liquid are the highest earning esports team of all time. The organization currently has successful teams in CS:GO, League of Legends, and Dota 2, amongst other big esports.
Michael Jordan was quoted in a press release by aXiomatic saying:
I’m excited to expand my sports equity portfolio through my investment in aXiomatic. Esports is a fast-growing, international industry and I’m glad to partner with this great group of investors.
It’s another sign of the impressive growth of esports. With more upcoming esports games on the horizon, bigger events, and more fans, you can expect more big names to invest in esports in future.