In a historic move for diversity and inclusion in the NFL, basketball Hall of Famers Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady, along with MLS star Jozy Altidore, have become minority owners of the Buffalo Bills. The trio is part of a group of 10 that marks the first Black athletes to hold an ownership stake in the franchise, following a league vote approving the new partners last week.
Carter took a moment to acknowledge tennis icons Venus and Serena Williams, who broke barriers in 2009 by becoming the first Black women to own a share of an NFL team with the Miami Dolphins. He emphasized the importance of their trailblazing move and expressed excitement about the opportunity for Black male athletes from different sports to now join the ranks of NFL ownership.
Many years ago, [the Williams’ sisters] started this and it kind of was a thing and it kind of got pushed aside, but they kind of broke that barrier for tennis athletes. And I think now full circle, we’re getting that opportunity as male black athletes that are from a different sport.
– Vince Carter
Diversity in NFL Ownership Under Scrutiny
The NFL has faced criticism in recent years for its lack of diversity among team owners. According to 2023 data, across the league’s 32 teams, ownership includes just 35% women and 10% people of color, despite at least 67% of NFL players being people of color.
McGrady stressed the importance of himself, Carter, and Altidore carrying this responsibility the right way and setting an example for the next generation. “It’s up to us to really carry this the right way and set an example for the next people that’s coming along,” he stated.
Growing Trend of Black Athlete Owners
The Bills’ new minority partners reflect a growing trend of prominent Black athletes stepping into team ownership roles. Other recent examples include Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton with the Denver Broncos and NBA legend Magic Johnson with the Washington Commanders.
I think there’s a cool message to pass on to young kids who are going to watch what we’re doing and want to do more, right. And I think the biggest part is knowing that you’re capable.
– Jozy Altidore
Strengthening Bills’ Toronto Connection
For Bills owner Terry Pegula, bringing in Carter, McGrady, and Altidore was also a strategic move to further engage the team’s sizable fan base in nearby Toronto and Southern Ontario. Carter and McGrady, who are cousins, played together on the Toronto Raptors early in the franchise’s history, while Altidore won an MLS Cup with Toronto FC.
Carter reminisced about former Bills stars Thurman Thomas and Bruce Smith attending Raptors games courtside back in the day. He believes their ownership stake can help tie the Bills even closer to Toronto by making fans there feel wanted and increasing awareness of the team.
Ready to Contribute as Owners
Looking ahead, the trio is eager to serve as resources for the current Bills players, lending their experience and perspective as fellow elite athletes. Whether it’s golfing with quarterback Josh Allen or providing guidance to the roster, they want to have a positive impact in their new roles.
That’s what I’m excited about the most, is just lending a helping hand. Using my voice and having that ear to these guys, because as athletes, you respect another athlete coming to you, lending their hand if they see something or kind of just give you some direction.
– Vince Carter
As Vince Carter, Tracy McGrady, and Jozy Altidore begin their journey as groundbreaking minority owners with the Buffalo Bills, their presence marks a significant step forward for diversity and representation in the NFL. While there is still much progress to be made, their involvement shines a light on the importance of inclusion and the positive impact it can have across the league and the sports world as a whole.
