Jason Kidd Joins Everton FC Ownership Group

Jason Kidd, the NBA Hall of Famer and head coach of the Dallas Mavericks, is now entering a different arena – this time in the English Premier League soccer world. The ownership group of Everton FC now includes the legendary point guard, who has a rich history and a hunger for rebirth. Kidd’s involvement comes through Roundhouse Capital Holdings, which is part of the Friedkin Group, which assumed control of Everton last year.

The Friedkin Group is also the owner of AS Roma, one of Italy’s most iconic football clubs. Kidd’s inclusion reinforces the growing connection between American sports icons and international football ventures. Kidd expressed his enthusiasm and confidence regarding the club’s future in a statement released by Everton on Thursday.

“I’m honored to be joining Everton’s ownership at such an important moment,” Kidd said. “With a new stadium on the horizon and a bright future ahead, it’s a great moment to come on board.”

Everton is currently transforming, both on and off the field, as they prepare to move into a state-of-the-art stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock.

Despite recent seasons spent battling relegation, the club retained its Premier League status this year and is now building momentum towards long-term success. Marc Watts, Everton’s executive chairman, applauded Kidd’s arrival, stating that his championship history and leadership will be of great value to the club’s future.

“Jason’s knowledge and winning mentality will be an incredible resource,” Watts said. “He is a respected leader and household name for many sports fans and will bring a deeper understanding of high performance as we collectively strive to build a brighter future for this storied club.”

The athletic résumé of Kidd speaks for itself. Kidd, who won two Olympic gold medals with Team USA in 2000 and 2008, was also a 10-time NBA All-Star and 2011 NBA champion with the Mavericks. During his tenure as a coach, he guided the Mavericks to the 2023 NBA Finals and also served as the head coach of the Brooklyn Nets and Milwaukee Bucks. He is among a growing group of American sports legends investing in English football after his foray into soccer ownership. Birmingham City was the target of NFL icon Tom Brady’s minority ownership in 2023, while NBA star LeBron James has been holding a stake in Liverpool since 2011.

Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas, golfers, are also involved in soccer ownership, having invested in Leeds United. Everton announced Kidd’s involvement after stating that Christopher Sarofim, chairman of Fayez Sarofim & Co., has also joined the ownership group.

The club indicated that Sarofim’s arrival would further strengthen its financial foundation and that he would serve as a board observer. The arrival of Jason Kidd into global football, as Everton prepare for a new era with a new home and revitalized leadership, brings added star power and strategic experience. Kidd’s championship mindset is expected to drive the next chapter of success for a club that is seeking its first major trophy since 1995.