Tracy McGrady and Vince Carter, two iconic figures in NBA history, have transitioned from the hardwood to the gridiron, joining the ownership group of the NFL’s Buffalo Bills. This landmark move marks the first time the Pegula family, principal owners of the Bills, have welcomed secondary shareholders into the franchise. The duo, cousins who shared the court during their early NBA years with the Toronto Raptors, are now embarking on a shared venture in the world of professional sports ownership. Their entry into the Bills’ ownership group adds a new chapter to their storied careers, both having achieved Hall of Fame status in basketball.
McGrady and Carter are joined by a group of ten new minority stakeholders, including Jozy Altidore, a prominent figure in US men’s soccer. The inclusion of these high-profile athletes signals a strategic move by the Bills organization to diversify its ownership base and leverage the expertise and influence of individuals with proven success in the world of professional sports. The addition of Arctos, a private equity firm with a diverse portfolio of investments across various sports leagues, further solidifies the Bills’ commitment to building a strong and sustainable ownership structure.
While the exact financial details of the investment remain undisclosed, the move represents a significant shift in the Bills’ ownership structure. The team’s current valuation stands at an impressive $4.2 billion, underscoring the financial magnitude of the transaction and the value that these new stakeholders bring to the franchise. This expansion of the ownership group not only injects new capital but also brings a wealth of experience and perspective from individuals with deep roots in the sports industry.
For McGrady, a seven-time All-Star, seven-time All-NBA selection, and two-time scoring champion, the move into NFL ownership represents a natural progression in his post-playing career. His illustrious 15-year NBA journey, marked by stints with the Toronto Raptors, Orlando Magic, Houston Rockets, New York Knicks, Detroit Pistons, and Atlanta Hawks, solidified his legacy as one of the most dynamic and prolific scorers of his era. His induction into the Hall of Fame in 2017 cemented his place among basketball’s elite.
Carter, an eight-time All-Star and two-time All-NBA selection, boasts an even longer NBA tenure, spanning an impressive 22 seasons. His career, highlighted by electrifying performances with the Toronto Raptors, where he averaged 23.4 points per game and recently had his No. 15 jersey retired, showcases his enduring impact on the game. Carter’s journey also included stints with the New Jersey Nets, Dallas Mavericks, Memphis Grizzlies, Atlanta Hawks, Orlando Magic, Sacramento Kings, and Phoenix Suns, demonstrating his adaptability and longevity in a demanding league. His induction into the Hall of Fame in 2021 further validated his status as a basketball legend.
The convergence of McGrady and Carter’s paths in NFL ownership is a testament to their shared history and enduring bond. Having started their professional careers together in Toronto, they now embark on a new chapter as co-owners of the Buffalo Bills. Their combined experience, business acumen, and deep understanding of the sports landscape position them to make significant contributions to the franchise’s future success. Their presence adds a layer of star power and credibility to the Bills’ ownership group, further elevating the team’s profile and attracting new fans and investors.
