American businessman Marc Stad has become the controlling owner of the Minnesota Timberwolves and their WNBA counterpart, the Minnesota Lynx, in a landmark transaction that values the combined franchise at $4.5 billion. The deal represents one of the most significant ownership changes in basketball, ranking as the fourth-largest NBA sale ever.
New Leadership Structure
The transaction brings together a notable ownership group, with Marc Lore serving as co-chairman alongside former Major League Baseball star Alex Rodriguez. Rodriguez, who has been instrumental in the team’s development in recent years, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership. “One of the great joys I’ve had in my career is spending the last few years helping build the Timberwolves and Lynx with my friend and partner Marc Lore,” Rodriguez stated, highlighting the collaborative effort that has defined the franchise’s recent trajectory.
Historic Valuation
The $4.5 billion valuation for both franchises underscores the growing value of NBA franchises and the appeal of owning a combined NBA-WNBA operation. Stad’s acquisition of the controlling stake places him at the helm of both the men’s and women’s basketball operations in Minnesota, positioning him to shape the strategic direction of both organizations moving forward.
The deal solidifies Minnesota’s place among the NBA’s most valuable markets, with the ownership structure now centered on Stad’s vision for the franchises. The involvement of Lore and Rodriguez ensures continuity in leadership philosophy, as both have demonstrated commitment to the organization’s growth and competitive aspirations.