NFL icon Tom Brady takes first ownership step with WNBA champions Las Vegas

24 March 2023 , 21:08

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Tom Brady retired from the NFL after 23 seasons following a dismal 2022 campaign with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Image: Getty Images)

NFL legend Tom Brady is heading to Sin City after he purchased an ownership stake in the reigning WNBA champion Las Vegas Aces.

Brady is clearly looking to stay involved in sports after he announced his retirement from the NFL last month. On Thursday, Las Vegas Raiders and Aces owner Mark Davis confirmed the legendary quarterback had acquired an ownership interest in the WNBA side.

Formerly the Utah Starzz, San Antonio Silver Stars and San Antonio Stars, the franchise became the Aces when it relocated to Las Vegas in 2018. The franchise claimed it's first WNBA title last season, defeating the Connecticut Sun in four games in the 2022 WNBA Finals.

Brady took to social media to announce the move and the former New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers superstar was clearly excited at the prospect. He said: “I got really special news to share today. I’m excited to announce I’m going to become part of the Las Vegas Aces organisation. It was a matter of time before I was back in the building with some of the greatest athletes in the world!

“I grew up with three older sisters. They were all incredible athletes in their own right, they were role models to me, it’s where my love of women’s sports began. I tagged along - I was their annoying little brother at all their games! They were the best athletes in our house and they’re still a great inspiration to me.

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“I admire all the work the Aces players and staff and what the WNBA continues to do to grow the sport and to empower the future generations of female athletes - one I have in my own family - and I’m ready to contribute in any way possible as a member of such a great organisation.

The Las Vegas Aces won the 2022 WNBA championship after defeating Connecticut Sun in four games (Getty Images)

“What an honour. I can’t wait to watch these amazing, talented players bring another championship to Las Vegas. LFG.”

Brady was referencing his niece Maya, who stars for the UCLA Bruins in softball and was even named Softball America Freshman of the Year in 2020. The 45-year-old hopes to continue making strides in women’s sport with the Aces going forwards.

Raiders owner Davis released a statement welcoming Brady, writing: “Since I purchased the Aces, our goal has been to win on and off the court. Tom Brady is a win not only for the Aces, and the WNBA, but for women's professional sports as a whole.”

Andrew Gamble