Giannis Antetokounmpo Becomes Shareholder in Prediction Market Platform Kalshi
NBA superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo — two-time MVP and cornerstone of the Milwaukee Bucks — has announced a new business move by becoming a shareholder in Kalshi, a major prediction market platform that lets users trade on the outcomes of future events ranging from sports and politics to entertainment.
Taking to social media, Giannis said, “The internet is full of opinions. I decided it was time to make some of my own. Today, I’m joining Kalshi as a shareholder.” Kalshi confirmed he is the first basketball star to join the company in this role and will participate in marketing and live-event appearances as part of the partnership.
A Strategic Investment While Remaining Active on the Court
Kalshi, regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), offers a platform for prediction trading that doesn’t resemble traditional sportsbooks — allowing markets on a wide variety of future events. Under the platform’s terms, Giannis is barred from trading on any NBA-related markets to prevent conflicts of interest and insider trading concerns.
The investment aligns with Antetokounmpo’s broader business expansion off the court. Known for his diversified portfolio — which includes stakes in the Milwaukee Brewers (MLB) and Nashville SC (MLS) — this move marks the NBA star’s foray into financial technology and event-based trading.
Kalshi’s CEO, Tarek Mansour, welcomed the deal, calling Giannis “a legend” and highlighting the forward-thinking nature of the partnership.
The Business of Opinions and Market Growth
The timing of Giannis’ announcement came just after a busy period for Kalshi, which saw millions of dollars traded on markets involving his NBA future around the league’s trade deadline. Although Antetokounmpo has remained with the Bucks, Kalshi’s markets had speculated heavily on potential destinations for the star forward.
As the popularity of prediction markets continues to grow, Giannis’ involvement brings additional visibility and credibility to Kalshi’s model — blending sporting influence with cutting-edge financial technology in a partnership that extends beyond typical athlete endorsements.
Discover more from On The Rise To Stardom
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
