Commanders' Bobby Wagner Invests in WNBA's Seattle Storm

Washington Commanders linebacker Bobby Wagner has taken a significant step by investing in the WNBA team, the Seattle Storm. Wagner, who grew up admiring Kobe Bryant, seeks to boost the legacy of the legendary Lakers player in the realm of women’s sports.

A Legacy of Inspiration

Wagner’s decision to invest in the team was announced on Wednesday. A post on X highlighted that Wagner is the first active NFL player to have a stake in a WNBA team. Wagner explained that he spoke with Magic Johnson, NBA Hall of Famer and minority shareholder of the Commanders, before making this decision.

He has been a great mentor to me; he helped me a lot. I presented this idea to him before making the decision, and it was very helpful because, obviously, he has done it. He has done it at a high level. So he is definitely someone I turn to.
Bobby Wagner

Wagner mentioned that Bryant’s legacy, who coached his daughters’ basketball teams and promoted women’s sports, was a key factor in his decision. Wagner, former teammate of Richard Sherman in Seattle, had the opportunity to meet Bryant thanks to a meeting organized by Sherman.

I saw what Kobe was doing for women’s basketball and the WNBA and what he was trying to do. This was something important to me because it’s almost like trying to continue where he left off. Obviously, I am not him at all, but I can do my part. I think women’s sports are incredible. I have daughters. I have sisters.
Bobby Wagner

Wagner has made other investments in female entrepreneurs and women-led funds, as well as in a fund dedicated exclusively to women’s sports, but this is his most public initiative. The player revealed that he began talking with the Seattle Storm team about five or six months ago. Furthermore, the fact that it was Seattle, where he played in the NFL from 2012 to 2021 and in 2023, also influenced his decision, as this investment allows him to stay connected to the city. During his time with the Seahawks, Wagner won a Super Bowl and was named All-Pro six times. Wagner used to follow the Storm team while they played in Seattle.