Image Credits: Imago Images
LeBron James has been ranked fifth on Forbes’ new “Self-Made 250: The Greatest Living Self-Made Americans” list.
The NBA icon isn’t just a global superstar and newly‑minted billionaire; he’s also a long‑standing part‑owner of Liverpool and a partner in Fenway Sports Group (FSG).
Forbes’ 250 list has been created to mark America’s 250th anniversary, spotlighting individuals who embody the “anyone can make it” ideal of the American Dream.
James clocks in at number five, behind the likes of Oprah Winfrey, after a career that has taken him from a difficult upbringing in Akron, Ohio, to a reported net worth of around 1.4 billion dollars through salary, endorsements and savvy business deals.
LeBron first entered the Liverpool picture back in 2011, shortly after FSG completed their 2010 takeover of the club.
As part of a marketing agreement with the Boston‑based group, James was handed a 2% stake in Liverpool, then valued at around 4.7 million pounds (roughly 6 million dollars at the time).
As the club’s value has soared on the back of Jurgen Klopp’s era, that slice has ballooned to an estimated 37 million pounds and beyond.
In 2021, James deepened his ties by becoming a formal partner in FSG, giving him a direct seat at the table with the group that runs Liverpool, the Boston Red Sox and other franchises.
While James isn’t in the recruitment meetings at Kirkby, his presence in the ownership group helps Liverpool position themselves as a global lifestyle brand rather than just a football club.
For Liverpool supporters, his Forbes recognition is another reminder that one of sport’s most powerful self‑made figures has skin in the Anfield game – an asset that could matter in future commercial deals, global branding and, fans will hope, continued investment in the team.
If the Anfield club wants to keep competing financially with state‑backed rivals, having a Forbes‑lauded mogul like James on the ownership roster is a handy calling card when the club sit down with sponsors.
