FSG makes major decision as Mohamed Salah announces exit
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NBA Governors approved a bid to entertain expansion franchises, but Fenway Sports Group is not expected to pursue a bid despite heavy interest and association with LeBron JamesFenway Sports Group will continue to focus on Liverpool despite NBA expansion franchise discussions (Image: Photo by James Baylis - AMA/Getty Images)Liverpool's owners, Fenway Sports Group, are no longer pursuing an NBA franchise despite long-term speculation that the conglomerate could add another major asset to its sports portfolio.FSG controls several major sports teams and organizations, though Liverpool is its most valuable asset. However, despite the allure of owning an NBA franchise, FSG has distanced itself from the conversation.READ MORE: Liverpool great explains why fans will treat Mohamed Salah differently to Trent Alexander-ArnoldREAD MORE: Liverpool's new highest earner emerges as Mohamed Salah gives up $535K-a-week contractFSG owns Liverpool, the Red Sox, TGL club Boston Common, and has stakes in the Penguins and NASCAR organization RFK Racing.
However, Henry was unsuccessful at every stage.When NBA superstar LeBron James became a stakeholder in FSG, all signs pointed toward another push for a basketball team, but nothing has transpired. When the Boston Celtics were put on the market, FSG was heavily linked to purchasing the team.FSG was linked with the Boston Celtics but opted against bidding for the NBA giants(Image: 2018 NBAE)With its headquarters in Boston, Massachusetts, the Celtics appeared to be the ideal opportunity for FSG, but no bid was made.
Despite the long-term connection, FSG is not pursuing a bid, according to The Athletic, via SBJ.FSG shareholder LeBron James is no longer pursuing an NBA bid(Image: Nick Cammett/Getty Images)A source said that FSG was "out on NBA ownership in Las Vegas because of the expected cost." While FSG and Henry have been rumored to be eyeing an NBA team for some time, the rapid rise in costs may have priced them out.James, who was expected to be the face of any expansion bid, is also no longer planning to launch an application. "No, I’m not. … Not at all," he said.A source close to James added, "With Fenway no longer pursuing NBA ownership, it is less likely that LeBron will pursue a team." While FSG is not considered a contender, it could be a welcome boost for the teams already under its control.Launching an NBA expansion franchise would require significant attention, likely taking some of the focus away from Liverpool and the Red Sox specifically.