Ex-US Soccer Star Jozy Altidore Shocking Move: Teaming Up with NBA's Russell Westbrook! What’s Their Wild Plan?

Oklahoma City is on the cusp of a significant transformation in its sports landscape, as former U.S. national soccer team forward Jozy Altidore has joined NBA star Russell Westbrook in the ownership group of OKC for Soccer. This announcement, made on Thursday, marks a pivotal step forward for the group, which has acquired the rights to a new USL Championship team, previously known as the OKC Energy.

The establishment of this team is part of a broader vision, with plans for a new stadium set to open in downtown Oklahoma City in 2028. The ambition is to create a vibrant environment for soccer in the region, resonating not just with local fans but also with aspiring young athletes. Altidore, a two-time U.S. Soccer Player of the Year and a two-time World Cup participant, brings a wealth of experience to the ownership group, having played in top leagues, including the English Premier League and Spain's LaLiga.

In a statement, Altidore expressed his enthusiasm about the venture, saying, “It’s rare to see a club and its pathway so deeply rooted in the community from day one. It aligns perfectly with an ambition to create a world-class environment for soccer in OKC at all levels of the game.” This emphasis on community engagement reflects a growing trend in professional sports, where teams are increasingly seen as integral parts of their localities.

Joining Altidore and Westbrook in this initiative are primary owners Echo Investment Capital, Altidore's business partner Alex Lee, and the Chickasaw Nation. The inclusion of diverse ownership represents a collaborative effort to enhance Oklahoma City's cultural and recreational offerings, especially in the realm of soccer, a sport that has been gaining traction across the United States.

Christian Kanady, the founding partner and CEO of Echo Investment Capital, expressed his excitement about Altidore's involvement, highlighting the unique credibility and insight he brings to the project. “Jozy brings something you cannot manufacture: world-class credibility, a player’s understanding of what it takes to develop talent, and the ability to inspire the next generation from the locker room to the boardroom,” Kanady stated.

The move aligns with a broader initiative to promote soccer in the U.S., especially as interest in the sport continues to grow at both the grassroots and professional levels. Cities across the country are investing in soccer infrastructure, with new teams and leagues emerging to cater to an increasingly passionate fan base. Oklahoma City’s new team aims to tap into this momentum by fostering local talent and engaging with the community, making soccer more accessible to fans and players alike.

As the foundation for this new team takes shape, the ambition is clear: to create a lasting impact on not just the sports landscape in Oklahoma City, but also on the cultural fabric of the community. For fans, this initiative promises to deliver a new chapter in local sports history, as they eagerly anticipate the debut of their future team and the prospect of cheering for a club that is rooted in and dedicated to its community.

The excitement surrounding this development is palpable, especially as the team prepares to play in a modern stadium that will serve as a hub for soccer in the region. With both Altidore and Westbrook at the helm, the aspirations for the new franchise are high, aiming to not only compete on the field but also to build a passionate and engaged fanbase that resonates with the diverse culture of Oklahoma City.