CLEVELAND, Ohio (92.3 The Fan) – Dee Haslam and Whitney Johnson of the Haslam Sports group are among a list of new investors in the WNBA the league announced Thursday.
The investment in the WNBA aligns with the Haslam Sports Group’s stated mission and commitment to diversity and inclusion, including advancing opportunities for women to participate in sports at all levels.
“We are thrilled to be a part of the WNBA and supporting the continued growth of women’s sports,” Johnson said. “Commissioner Cathy Engelbert’s vision for the league is strategic and impressive, and we are excited about what the future holds for the WNBA.
“Representation can play such an important role in inspiring people to reach their full potential, and the profound impact sports can have on individuals and community is something our family and the Haslam Sports Group will always value and look to support.”
There are no discussions or plans between the Haslam Sports Group and WNBA about bringing a team to Cleveland or Columbus.
The investment made by Haslam and Johnson is part of the largest-ever capital raise for a women’s sports property.
Proceeds from the capital raise are expected to be used for “brand elevation and marketing; globalization of the WNBA; innovation, digital, and growth of consumer touchpoints; and human capital and operational optimization as part of an overall effort to address some of the league’s obstacles to growth and generating new revenue” the league said.
Mrs. Haslam is a managing and principal partner and Johnson a partner of the Haslam Sports Group.
The Haslam Sports Group owns and operates the Cleveland Browns of the National Football League and Major League Soccer’s Columbus Crew.