Another of Seattle’s sports stars is joining the ranks of franchise ownership.
The Seattle Seawolves announced that former NBA rookie of the year Paolo Banchero is joining the ownership group for the Major League Rugby franchise.
Banchero, who is from Seattle, led O’Dea to a Class 3A state basketball title in 2019 and was a McDonald’s All-American in 2021. He played at Duke before going No. 1 in the 2022 NBA draft to the Orlando Magic.
The Seawolves said in a release that Banchero’s ownership adds to his sports portfolio, which “includes stakes in AC Milan and more to be announced soon.”
“Adding Paolo to the Seawolves family is incredibly exciting,” said Seawolves majority owner Chris Prentice. “His roots in Seattle, his commitment to excellence, and his passion for uplifting the community align perfectly with the values of our club. This is a special moment for rugby in the Pacific Northwest.”
Banchero is the latest sports star with Seattle ties to join sports ownership. Hall of Famer Sue Bird joined the Storm ownership group after her playing days and former Seahawks linebacker Bobby Wagner also joined the Storm ownership group over the summer.
Banchero has deep sports roots in Seattle. His parents met at Washington as mom Rhonda (formerly Smith) was the women’s basketball program’s career scoring leader when she graduated. His dad, Mario, was on the football team.
Banchero, who was an NBA All-Star in 2024, signed a five-year, $239 million maximum rookie contract extension over the summer that could reach $287 million.
“As someone who grew up in Seattle, investing in the Seawolves is a chance to support my hometown and help grow a sport that’s gaining real momentum in the U.S.,” Banchero said in a release. “I’m passionate about sports and the impact they have on communities — whether it’s here in Seattle or around the world.”
Seattle Times sports staff.