Lukas Walton, grandson of Walmart founder Sam Walton, and his wife Samantha have purchased a minority stake in the Chicago Bulls and the United Center, the franchise confirmed Friday.
The transaction involves the acquisition of existing shares from current owners, marking a new entry for the Walton family into professional sports ownership.
The move underscores the deepening intersection between retail wealth and sports entertainment, as billionaire investors increasingly diversify into high-profile franchise assets.
While the Waltons are prominent Chicago residents, the investment is personal and does not involve Walmart Inc. (WMT) corporate capital or strategy.
This acquisition aligns with broader trends in sports finance, where minority stakes in marquee teams have become sought-after assets for ultra-high-net-worth individuals.
The deal adds to the complex ownership structure of the Bulls, which has seen various minority investors join over the years.