Kevin Durant acquires a 5% stake in MLS franchise Philadelphia Union

Brooklyn Nets star Kevin Durant has w officially purchased a stake in Major League Soccer (MLS) side Philadelphia Union. Durant acquired a 5 percent stake in franchise with an option to purchase ar 5 percent in future. deal also includes a partnership with Kevin Durant's Thirty Five Ventures, which is run by Nets star's business partner, Rich Kleiman. 

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" deal also features a unique and expanded partnership with Durant and sports business executive Rich Kleiman’s Thirty Five Ventures that will focus on growing Union footprint in sports world, working closely with Union on marketing opportunities, and expanding Union’s community outreach in conjunction with Kevin Durant Charity Foundation (KDCF)," a statement from Philadelphia Union read.  priority of partnership between KDCF and Union will be to work in communities to "empower youth" to face social injustices. It will n look to address COVID-19 pandemic situation and support needed in area. Lastly, development of a youth sports programme in area will also be a goal for  Kevin Durant Charity Foundation.

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With his acquisition of a stake in Philadelphia Union, Kevin Durant joins former teammate and Houston Rockets star James Harden, and Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson as investors in MLS franchises. James Harden owns a mirity stake in Houston Dynamo while Wilson has invested in Seattle Sounders. "I’m excited to partner with Philadelphia Union for years to come," Kevin Durant told Union's media team. "My team and I connected instantly with Union coaching staff and leadership, as well as team’s story." Durant furr said this partnership would allow him to work in communities of Chester and Philadelphia like  KDCF has been able to in his hometown of Prince George's County. 

According to reports, Philadelphia Union is currently valued at just over $325 million. This potentially means Kevin Durant paid a little over $16 million for his stake in Union. two-time NBA champion says he has been a fan of MLS and was impressed with rapid growth in popularity of league among fans. Per Durant, business opportunity to work with Union will be "intriguing".

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Being one of most recognised NBA stars globally, Durant's experience and popularity will help MLS team both on and off pitch, per Union chairman, Jay Sugarman. Last season, Union finished third in Eastern Conference and reached conference semifinals. 

Kevin Durant return ahead of NBA restart?

Last week, Durant confirmed his NBA season is over and he does t plan on playing for Nets this season. Durant ruptured an Achilles tendon during Game 5 of 2019 NBA Finals. After assessing severity of his injury, Durant ted he does t plan on returning to basketball this season. Durant's Brooklyn Nets, however, will travel to Walt Disney World in Orlando to take part in NBA restart.

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Im Courtesy: Philadelphia Union Twitter