You generally picture slam dunks and three-pointers when we bring up basketball, not horse racing. However, the thrill and prestige of horse racing have attracted many NBA stars. These athletes seek the same adrenaline rush and competitive edge on the racetrack. From high-stakes betting to lucrative investments, horse racing offers NBA players an exciting way to channel their competitive spirits and secure their financial futures.
Nikola Jokic
Nikola Jokic, also known as “The Joker,” has been dominating the NBA for several years. Interestingly, his passion isn’t confined to the basketball court; he’s also a big fan of horse racing.
Growing up in Serbia, where horse racing isn’t particularly popular, Jokic’s affinity for the sport is unique. His love for horses began early in life, as he balanced his time between playing basketball and spending time at horse stables.
This passion runs in his family, and he often spent his holidays on the farm around horses. Today, Jokic owns several horses and even participates in harness races in his hometown.
Michael Jordan
After retiring from professional basketball, Jordan turned his attention to entrepreneurship, investing in various ventures to build his wealth. Among these investments is his foray into horse racing.
Jordan has co-owned several famous horses, with Knicks Go standing out as one of his most successful. Knicks Go earned the title of Horse of the Year in 2021, reflecting Jordan’s knack for picking winners even off the court.
Despite these achievements, Jordan’s personal passion for horse racing seems limited; he rarely attends events and keeps his involvement relatively low-key.
Tony Parker
Tony Parker, after nearly two decades in the NBA, developed a love for horse racing post-retirement. Unlike Jokic, Parker’s passion for the sport blossomed later in life. He transitioned from professional basketball to becoming a racehorse owner, founding Infinity Nine Horses.
Parker’s involvement goes beyond mere ownership; he actively participates in the racing community, attending major events globally. His dedication is evident, as he even plans to document his journey in a film, emphasizing his genuine love for the sport rather than financial gain.
Parker’s stable has already made a mark, showcasing his competitive spirit, and he continues to thrive off the court. His story inspires many, proving that passions can evolve and lead to new, fulfilling ventures.
Rex Chapman
Rex Chapman, a former NBA player known for his time with the Phoenix Suns, found a new calling in horse racing after leaving basketball.
Growing up in Kentucky, the home of the prestigious Kentucky Derby, Chapman was no stranger to the sport. His transition from basketball to horse racing seemed almost natural. Over the years, he invested in numerous racehorses, a passion that eventually led to having a horse track named in his honor at Santa Anita.
Chapman’s deep connection to horse racing is rooted in both his upbringing and his drive for competition, demonstrating that the adrenaline and strategic thinking required in basketball seamlessly translate to the racetrack.
His legacy in horse racing continues to grow, much like his impact on the NBA.
The Bottom Line
As illustrated, horse racing and NBA players have a unique connection. Beyond the thrill of competition, these athletes find solace in an entirely different world that allows them to pursue their passions and diversify their investments.
The rest of the season is truly a promising one for horse racing, with many events already scheduled. The Breeders’ Cup is one of the key events to watch out for. Although it’s in November, the online community has already been buzzing with excitement about this year’s race. If you want to join the fun and potentially get in on the action, you can bet with FanDuel to make your predictions and win big.