Cade Cunningham became a team owner Thursday. The Detroit Pistons All-Star purchased a minority stake in MLB’s Texas Rangers, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
The 24-year-old Arlington native joins a growing list of active athletes investing in professional franchises while still in their prime. For Cunningham, this move is both personal and strategic. He grew up minutes from the Rangers’ ballpark, starred at Bowie High School, and once dreamed of playing under the bright lights of his hometown teams. Now, he owns a piece of one.
“It was an amazing experience,” Cunningham said last July after throwing out the first pitch at a Rangers home game. “To come back to the sports teams that I grew up supporting and loving, it’s amazing.”
This investment comes during a career year. Cunningham is averaging 25.3 points, 9.6 assists and 5.6 rebounds while leading the Eastern Conference best Pistons back into serious contention. He earned his second straight All-Star selection and will suit up Sunday amongst the USA Stars.
Ownership reflects long-term vision. Cunningham signed a five-year max rookie extension in 2024 worth up to $269 million. He also secured a six-year endorsement extension with Nike that includes a signature shoe deal. The capital is there. The timing is deliberate.
Why the Rangers Investment Matters
The Rangers have been owned by Rangers Baseball Express since 2011. Principal owner Ray C. Davis and Bob R. Simpson financed the group’s purchase after a turbulent ownership transition in 2010 that included bankruptcy concerns and a reduced $539 million sale price.
Cunningham’s stake size has not been disclosed. Still, the symbolism is powerful. A hometown No. 1 overall NBA pick reinvesting in the franchise he grew up watching sends a clear message about legacy and roots.
This trend is expanding across sports. LeBron James owns stakes through Fenway Sports Group, which controls the Boston Red Sox and Liverpool FC. Giannis Antetokounmpo holds a minority stake in the Milwaukee Brewers. Patrick Mahomes has invested in multiple Kansas City franchises. Athlete equity is no longer rare. It is becoming part of the modern superstar playbook.Cunningham’s move fits that pattern. He is not waiting until retirement to diversify.
On-Court Dominance, Off-Court Discipline
Cunningham’s basketball resume already speaks loudly. The 2021 No. 1 pick made All-Rookie First Team and has steadily elevated his efficiency and playmaking. This season, he has combined scoring volume with control, posting near double-digit assists while anchoring a first-place team.
That balance carries off the court. He is securing generational wealth while still chasing championships. The Pistons are pursuing their first NBA Finals appearance since 2005. Cunningham is chasing hardware. At the same time, he is building ownership equity in another league. That dual focus matters. Stars talk about impact. Cunningham is structuring it.He is not just leading a franchise. He now owns a piece of one.
