Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) is now a part-owner of Atlético de Madrid. The club announced on Thursday, October 8, that the Oklahoma City Thunder guard has joined its shareholder group. Neither side disclosed the size of his stake or what he paid for it.

In his statement, SGA called Atlético a club with a long history at the top of European football. "I'm grateful for the opportunity to be part of its future," he said.

Atlético pitched the deal around ambition and earning every result. Club officials said his investment reflects interest in their long-term plans and their push to grow outside Spain.

Atlético pointed out that Gilgeous-Alexander repped its red and white long before he bought in. Last season he wore an Atlético tracksuit in a look the Thunder posted to Instagram. If you track his pregame fits, you had a hint months ago.

Check the résumé

SGA led the Thunder to the 2025 NBA title and took Finals MVP. He has also won the league MVP award two years running.

Who else owns Atlético

SGA joins a crowded cap table. Apollo Sports Capital completed its takeover in March and holds the majority, reported at about 55% of the club. Spanish business outlet Expansión valued Atlético at €2.5 billion at the time of that deal.

CEO Miguel Ángel Gil Marín and chairman Enrique Cerezo kept their roles and their shares. Ares Management and Quantum Pacific remain investors. Shareholders also approved up to €100 million in new capital for the teams and for Ciudad del Deporte, the sports and entertainment district planned next to the Metropolitano.

The Canada connection

Atlético's owners also run Atlético Ottawa in the Canadian Premier League and Atlético de San Luis in Liga MX.

Gilgeous-Alexander grew up in Hamilton, Ontario and Canada forward Jonathan David also landed at Atlético this window, on loan from Juventus.

Atleti fans are split

Some Atleti supporters pushed back online. HITC collected reactions that ranged from basketball fans welcoming him to others asking whether he knows which league Atlético plays in. One fan pointed to photos of SGA in a Real Madrid shirt next to Vinícius Júnior.

NBA money in European soccer

SGA follows LeBron James, who bought into Liverpool owner Fenway Sports Group in 2021. Atlético was second in La Liga when it announced the deal.