Former NBA all-star Michael Redd has joined the ADvantage Sports Tech Fund as a venture partner.
ADvantage is a global sports tech fund backed by Lead Sports and OurCrowd to invest in early-stage technology companies aimed at shaping the future of sports. In this capacity, Redd will be sourcing sports technologies with ADvantage and accelerating the introduction of new products and services into the sports world.
Based in Columbus, OH, Redd will be covering emerging technologies at the intersection of sports and data, with a focus on the convergence of wellness and athletics.
Since retirement in 2013, Redd has been at the forefront of what has become a notable trend: athletes transitioning from their playing days to investing in technology. Over the past six years, Redd has invested in over 85 companies as an angel investor, partner at Third Wave Digital, and through involvement with other funds.
“I’m humbled to join the ADvantage team and excited to be joining Jeremy, Christoph, and Alex investing in the best teams pioneering sports technologies globally,” said Redd. “I was blessed throughout my career to tour the world and specifically with Team USA gained exposure to how different cultures form their own sports and technology ecosystems with unique strengths. That’s why I’m excited to join the first team that’s actively sourcing ideas and talent from ecosystems around the world to advance our industry.”
“We’re thrilled to welcome Michael to the ADvantage family,” said Jeremy Pressman, Partner at ADvantage. “Through his athletic achievements and experience over the last six years in venture investing, Michael has built an extensive global network and deep expertise in the business of sports and technology. We’re excited to be working with him to identify and build out the next generation of great sports tech companies that can benefit from his unique perspectives.”
Redd, best known for his tenure as shooting guard with the Milwaukee Bucks and role in the 2008 US Men’s Olympic team, added, “I reflect on how major injuries ultimately derailed my career. The potential today for the right mix of technologies and data to prolong and enhance the playing days of professionals and amateurs alike, can unlock human potential and underpin an enormous industry.”
Photo courtesy the OurCrowd backed ADvantage Sports Tech Fund. Michael Redd pictured far right.
