Jimmy Butler, an accomplished player for the Golden State Warriors, has recently joined an investor group, acquiring a minority stake in the San Diego Wave Fútbol Club (Wave FC). The club was valued at $120 million after its acquisition by the Levine Leichtman family from Ron Burkle in October 2024, as reported by The Athletic.

Butler’s Passion for Soccer

Butler’s fascination with soccer began during the 2016 Rio Olympics, where he attended the men’s final. He views his investment in Wave FC as an opportunity to elevate the profile of women’s sports. “Soccer has been a passion of mine for a long time, and being part of the game in a meaningful way has always been a dream,” Butler remarked in a press release.

Expressing his commitment to the club and the city, he stated, “San Diego has become a city close to my heart, and I’m proud to invest in a club that is pushing boundaries, building something lasting, and setting a new standard for what women’s sports can be.”

Support from Club Leadership

Lauren Leichtman, the controlling owner of San Diego Wave FC, praised Butler’s competitive spirit and vision. “Jimmy is a competitor and visionary who shares our values and our ambition to grow this Club. He brings a global perspective, a deep respect for the athlete’s journey, and a creative spirit that perfectly complements what we are building here at Wave FC,” she remarked.

Diverse Investments Beyond Sports

This latest venture into soccer is part of Butler’s broader strategy to build long-term wealth. He is also known for his investments in lifestyle and wellness, including his coffee brand, BigFace Coffee. The company began during the NBA bubble in 2020, where he sold coffee to fellow players. By 2024, Butler expanded BigFace Coffee to a storefront in Miami.

At the grand opening of his coffee shop, he shared his enthusiasm: “This is a dream of mine. I get to come in here, chill out, meet people, vibe out, and become friends. Coffee is life. It’s how I start my mornings,” he stated, as reported by CBS News.