Renowned athletes often go beyond their on-court prowess and venture into different business opportunities. NBA players have been no different and shown their entrepreneurial skills, with some even owning their own liquor brands.
One notable example is none other than King James, who has his own brand of high-end liquor. However, he is not the first NBA star to venture into the alcohol industry.
Does LeBron James have a liquor brand?
With a net worth of $1.2 billion, LeBron James is not only one of the most successful NBA players ever, he is one of the richest as well. The 18-time All-Star and four-time NBA champion has several income sources apart from the salary that he gets from the LA Lakers. LeBron James recently signed a $97.1 million two-year contract extension.
But it’s not just basketball and lucrative endorsements that contribute to LeBron James’ wealth. He is also an entrepreneur, and one of his notable investments is in the tequila company Lobos 1707. In 2020, LeBron became a partner and investor in the company, which has seen significant success in recent years.
Lobos 1707, founded in 2018 by Diego Osorio and Dia Simms, has garnered critical acclaim and commercial success. Their reposado tequila was voted the Best Reposado tequila at the 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Additionally, Forbes named Lobos’ Reposado as one of the five best tequilas in the world.
“I knew the first time I tasted Lobos 1707 Tequila that it was special.” were LeBron James’ exact words when talking about the liquor which is priced at $51 per bottle.
While the exact net worth of Lobos 1707 is unknown, its success and recognition indicate that it is in good financial standing. LeBron James’ partnership with the brand not only adds to his diverse portfolio but also showcases his business acumen.
But alongside LeBron James, many other basketball players have delved into this liquor business outside their on-court business.
Other NBA stars with alcohol Brands
Cincoro – Michael Jordan
Co-founded by Michael Jordan in September 2019, Cincoro has emerged as a major player in the alcohol industry. Featuring a range of top-notch bottles priced between $80 and $1500, the brand’s success isn’t merely riding on Jordan’s name.
Cincoro has amassed an impressive collection of 23 Spirits Awards, solidifying its reputation for delivering exceptional quality. To date, the brand has sold over 1.5 million bottles and is now eyeing global expansion. With Jordan’s track record of success, it comes as no surprise that his foray into the alcohol business has proven to be another prosperous investment.
Gentleman’s Cut – Stephen Curry
Like LeBron James, one notable NBA superstar who has recently entered the alcohol industry is Stephen Curry. In May of this year, Curry introduced his very own bourbon called Gentleman’s Cut Kentucky Straight Bourbon. Priced at $80 per bottle, this finely crafted bourbon is gaining popularity among whiskey enthusiasts.
Curry’s bourbon is meticulously created using a mix of 75% corn, 21% rye, and 4% malted barley. The aging process takes between 5 to 7 years, resulting in a rich and flavorful beverage. Soon, whiskey connoisseurs across the globe will have the opportunity to savor Curry’s creation.
J-Harden Wines – James Harden
James Harden, formerly a superstar of the Houston Rockets, has also made his mark in the alcohol industry. In 2023, he partnered with Accolade Wines’ Jam Shed brand to create J-Harden Wines. This collaboration resulted in the introduction of three variants of wine, catering to wine enthusiasts with limited experience.
Priced at around $15 per bottle, J-Harden Wines have gained positive reviews and are currently only available in the United States.
Wade Cellars – Dwyane Wade
Dwyane Wade, the retired Miami Heat superstar, has also dipped his hands in the industry. Even before his playing career was over, Wade started Wade Cellars in 2014 in partnership with Napa Valley vintner Jayson Pahlmeyer. This wine label, currently exclusive to the US, offers a range of exquisite wines ranging from $17 to $115 per bottle.
Wade Cellars is now aiming to expand its reach globally, with plans to introduce its wines to markets outside the United States. Recently, they launched their most affordable bottle yet, the highly anticipated 2020 California Cabernet.
Digits Bourbon – Scottie Pippen
One notable player is Scottie Pippen, who originally started the Digits Bourbon company in 2021. This beverage, with a 46% alcohol content, was initially launched exclusively in Chicago.
Even though Digits Bourbon is a relatively new player in the market, it has already gained significant recognition. At the esteemed Sunset International Spirits Competition, the bourbon earned a remarkable 97 rating, solidifying its status as one of the best bourbons in its price range.
Aged at the renowned Savage & Cooke Distillery in California’s Napa Valley, Digits Bourbon offers a high-quality drinking experience. Priced at around $70 per bottle, it provides excellent value for bourbon enthusiasts looking for a premium product.
Redmont Vodka – Charles Barkley
In 2014, Charles Barkley founded Redmont Vodka, which is known as the first legal distillery in Birmingham. This premium small-batch spirit is made entirely from corn and is available for purchase at an affordable price of $29.99 per bottle.
Interestingly, Barkley’s company focuses primarily on the US market, with production based in his hometown. While some NBA player-backed alcohol brands may come with a hefty price tag, Redmont Vodka offers a more affordable option.
Others NBA stars are associated with liquor brands like Carmelo Anthony with “The Seventh Estate,” Tony Parker into winemaking with “Château La Mascaronne,” and CJ McCollum with his label called “McCollum Heritage 91”. These players are just a few examples of NBA icons who have set their sights on leveraging their fame to expand their business interests.
