It’s become increasingly common to see some of the biggest names in sports become successful business owners and investors outside of their ballgame. In fact, a good number of professional athletes now own spirits brands. Here, we will look at some tequila, whiskey, and bourbon drinks you may not have known were launched or owned by such players.
Tequila
Michael Jordan and LeBron James are often compared as two of the greatest basketball players to ever play in the NBA. But did you know they also compete in the tequila arena? Jordan is a founder of Cincoro Tequila, and James holds the same title for Lobos 1707. While he is not a founder, Super Bowl champion Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs, is a major investor in Casa Azul’s tequila soda. Lastly, we have to give a nod to Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. An actor and former professional wrestler, Johnson’s Teremana Tequila was the fastest growing tequila brand in the country.
Whiskey and Bourbon
Derek Jeter is part of the Bespoken Spirits team that is infamous for the wood-spoken Whiskey products. Peyton Manning is always up for a good time. He launched a Tennessee and Kentucky-style bourbon with Sweetens Cove in 2021. Joining his Bulls teammate, Scottie Pippen linked up with Savage and Cooke distillery to launch DIGITS bourbon in 2022. Finally, Pittsburgh Steelers’ legend Terry Bradshaw has been well-known for his Kentucky Straights whiskey bourbon brand. He even lends his name to the labeling.
Stephen Curry
One of the latest NBA players to step into the scene is Golden State Warriors superstar Steph Curry. This month, Curry announced the launch of his official Bourbon Whiskey. Moreover, Curry has proven to be an MVP on and off the court with the work of his SC30 enterprises.
With Curry’s Gentleman’s Cut being the newest addition to soon hit the shelves, here is a closer look at some NBA athletes and their spirits brands.