Game Changers Dope #19
LEGACY BUILDERS
From the NBA Court to Saving the Planet: Steven Adams' Remarkable Sustainability Journey.
In the vast world of professional sports, few athletes command attention quite like Steven Adams. Standing at a towering 7 feet tall, this New Zealand-born basketball sensation has not only made a name for himself on the hardwood but has also become a symbol of resilience, philanthropy, and sustainability that resonates far beyond the confines of the basketball court. As we delve into the multifaceted persona of Steven Adams, we uncover a man whose impact extends far beyond his slam dunks and rebounds, a man who is driven by a passionate desire to leave a lasting legacy of positive change.
Born in the picturesque city of Rotorua, New Zealand, Steven Adams' journey to NBA stardom was far from a straightforward trajectory. His life story reads like an inspirational novel, with each chapter chronicling his relentless pursuit of excellence despite formidable odds. His autobiography, "My Life, My Fight: Rising Up from New Zealand to the OKC Thunder", paints a vivid portrait of his ascent from modest beginnings to international acclaim in the high-flying world of the NBA. Steven Adams' story serves as a beacon of hope for countless individuals who admire not only his towering presence on the court but also his indomitable spirit in the face of adversity.
Beyond the basketball arena, Steven Adams is an astute entrepreneur with a profound commitment to sustainability and social impact. As the founder of TāneMahuta Capital, an investment office dedicated to sustainability-driven initiatives, Adams is at the forefront of a movement that seeks to harmonize business success with environmental responsibility.
Through strategic investments spanning agriculture, food, technology, and artificial intelligence, he is shaping a future where innovation and ecological conscientiousness go hand in hand. The TāneMahuta Capital portfolio is a testament to his visionary approach, with investments in companies like:
- Allbirds (Nature Friendly Shoes)
- Arepa (Brain Drink for Performance)
- Coverage Cat (Consumer Insurance)
- Halter (Futuristic Farming)
- Leaft Foods (Plant Protein)
- Newfish (Biotechnology Nutrition Company)
- Rain Neuromorphics (AI Neurocomputing)
- Scylla Farming (Farm with Regenerative Practices)
- Seashell (Money Management Tool)
- Spalk (Virtual Sports Broadcasting)
However, Adams' vision extends well beyond the realm of business. His dedication to philanthropy is equally profound. The Steven Adams Camps are a prime example of his commitment to student-athletes, providing pathways to success, educational opportunities, and initiatives that democratize access to basketball, ensuring it remains a sport for all.
Steven Adams Teamwear takes this commitment further by striving to make basketball uniforms affordable, with profits channeled toward scholarships and support for underserved schools in his native New Zealand.
Steven Adams is more than just an athlete; he is a colossus whose impact transcends sports, who stands as a paragon of philanthropy, and who champions the cause of sustainability with unparalleled fervor. His allegiance to his New Zealand roots, coupled with his extensive influence in the spheres of business and philanthropy, paints a portrait of a man deeply invested in the future. As he continues to make strides both on and off the basketball court, Steven Adams embodies the ideals of an inspiring role model, reminding us that greatness knows no bounds, and that to care about the future means taking resolute actions today. In the grand tapestry of the world, Steven Adams is a true giant, and his legacy, a testament to the heights that humanity can reach when driven by purpose and compassion.
MONEY MOVES
- Tiger Woods and Justin Timberlake Just Opened a Sports Bar and Members Club Together in N.Y.C. Full story here.
- League One Volleyball has raised $35 million in Series B funding with investments from Lindsey Vonn, Candace Parker, Jayson Tatum, Kevin Durant and Rich Kleiman’s Boardroom Sports Holdings, and more. Full story here.
- LAGC Team Receives Investment From Alex Morgan and Michelle Wie. Full story here.
ATHLETE CREATORS
In Filipe Toledo's (Brazilian Pro Surfer) exciting new series - PEACE & POWER - we get an exclusive look into his journey towards securing his second World Title and achieving his Olympic dream. The series kicks off at the final events of the year in Rio de Janeiro and J-Bay, offering viewers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into Filipe's fresh approach for the season ahead.
This documentary-style series promises to uncover the highs and lows of Filipe's career, shedding light on what's been effective, what hasn't, and his strategy for reaching the pinnacle of his sport while leaving an even more remarkable legacy. It's a raw and honest portrayal of the emotions that accompany Filipe's competitive spirit, providing a refreshing and authentic perspective on his journey.
WTF BRANDS
The former snowboarder Gretchen Bleiler has been involved in sustainability issues for years. She is particularly concerned with climate change and the future of outdoor recreation. She is the co-founder of ALEX (Always Live Extraordinarily), a company that produces reusable bottles and vacuum-insulated cups, among other things. The company hopes that every time you sip from ALEX you’re reminded of how awesome you are, and inspired to go beyond your ordinary. Be Extraordinary.
IMPACT STANDOUTS
Asisat Oshoala, one of Nigeria's most celebrated female footballers, and a key player for both the Nigerian women's national team, the Super Falcons, and FC Barcelona in the Spanish League, founded the Asisat Oshoala Foundation. This organization is her way of giving back and making a positive impact on the lives of young girls and women, encouraging them to excel not only in sports but also in various other aspects of life.
The Academy had its official launch in July 2022, and it is driven by a strong partnership with the renowned sports manufacturing brand, Nike, along with the support of Women Win. Together, they aim to empower and inspire the next generation of girls and women, fostering their growth and development in both sports and other endeavors. Asisat's Academy is a beacon of hope and opportunity for young females, embodying her commitment to creating a brighter future for them.
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