Mark Cuban, minority owner of the Dallas Mavericks and longtime star of ABC’s hit show Shark Tank, is officially exiting the series after 15 seasons to focus on a groundbreaking new sports investing venture.
After 14 years of empowering entrepreneurs on Shark Tank, Cuban’s post-TV plans are now clear: he is partnering with top sports industry insiders to launch a $750 million private equity fund targeting minority stakes in major American professional sports teams.
Mark Cuban’s New Private Equity Fund Targets NBA, NFL, MLB Investments
According to Bloomberg, Cuban is teaming up with Steve Cannon, former CEO of the company behind the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons, and Rashaun Williams, venture capitalist and Falcons limited partner, to create Harbinger Sports Partners. This new fund will focus on acquiring up to 5% ownership stakes in NBA, NFL, and MLB teams, with individual investments ranging from $50 million to $150 million.
Harbinger Sports Partners aims to leverage its expertise to enter the lucrative market of sports team ownership through minority investments. The group plans to exit these investments via secondary offerings within seven to ten years, positioning itself as a key player in professional sports investment.
Mark Cuban Bids Farewell to Shark Tank with Heartfelt Goodbye
Cuban’s final episode on Shark Tank aired Friday night, marking the end of his 15-season run on the ABC hit. On social media, Cuban shared his bittersweet farewell, writing, “My last @ABCSharkTank is this Friday. Gonna miss it. But it was time to move on. Make sure to watch!”
The Season 16 finale featured Cuban’s emotional goodbye to fellow Sharks Kevin O’Leary, Barbara Corcoran, Lori Greiner, Robert Herjavec, and Daymond John. “I love you guys like family,” Cuban expressed on the set, closing a significant chapter in his entrepreneurial journey.
Why Mark Cuban Is Leaving Shark Tank
Back in 2023, Cuban revealed his decision to leave the show was driven by a desire to spend more time with his family. “I just want to have a couple summers with my teens before they go off on their own,” he told The Hollywood Reporter. Cuban emphasized that his departure had nothing to do with his passion for the show, which he credited with motivating entrepreneurs worldwide.
Since joining Shark Tank in 2011, Cuban became known for his sharp business acumen and willingness to back innovative startups. Now, he’s set to bring that same entrepreneurial spirit to the world of sports investing.