The Business Savvy of Kyle Kuzma: From NBA Star to Venture Capital Advisor
A New Generation of Athletes
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Kyle Kuzma, forward for the Washington Wizards and 2020 NBA champion, is more than just a basketball star. He’s a recognized fashion icon (check out our latest article on athlete style!), an angel investor, and now, a venture capital advisor. Kuzma is part of a new wave of NBA players who are actively diversifying their portfolios and venturing into the world of business.
Joining Scrum Ventures
In March, Kuzma joined Scrum Ventures, an early-stage focused firm, as an advisor to their sports and entertainment fund aiming for $120 million. This partnership began in January through a connection between Kuzma’s agent, Austin Eastman, and Scrum managing director and partner Michael Proman. Proman was impressed by Kuzma’s genuine interest in the business world, going beyond just understanding the “business playbook” to actively engaging with it.
Scrum’s Unique Approach to Sports Tech
Scrum’s sports fund differentiates itself from other VC funds by focusing on technology that benefits athletes and businesses within the sports industry but also has broader applications in other sectors. Ozlo Sleepbuds, a company developing earbuds for better sleep, is a prime example. While crucial for athletes, quality sleep is essential for everyone.
Kuzma’s Diverse Investment Portfolio
Proman highlighted Kuzma’s diverse investment portfolio as a key factor in his selection. Since 2020, Kuzma has invested in various sectors, including Lemon Good (a soda alternative that has raised over $67.8 million in venture capital), Surf (a consumer data company), and Bezel (a watch marketplace). This breadth of experience makes him a valuable asset to Scrum Ventures.
A Competitive Edge
Kuzma believes his competitive nature honed through years of playing at the highest level of basketball translates well into the world of venture capital. He sees it as a game of strategy and teamwork, where success depends on collaboration and calculated risks. He aims to leverage his connections and experience to help companies grow their networks and reach new heights.
The Future of Athlete Entrepreneurship
Kuzma’s involvement with Scrum Ventures follows a growing trend of NBA players venturing into the business world. Kevin Durant’s 35V family office, Steph Curry’s Penny Jar Capital, and former players like Andre Iguodala (Mosaic) and Michael Redd (22 Ventures) are just a few examples. Kuzma is undoubtedly paving the way for future generations of athletes who will continue to redefine success both on and off the court.
