Breaking: Marc Lasry, the former owner of the Bucks, still wants a NWSL team…

Marc Lasry, billionaire investor and former co-owner of the Milwaukee Bucks, is reportedly still pursuing a bid to bring a National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team to life—reigniting speculation about the league’s next phase of expansion.

Lasry, who sold his stake in the Bucks in early 2023, has remained active in sports investment circles. Known for helping build the Bucks into a championship-caliber team and contributing significantly to Milwaukee’s revitalized sports culture, Lasry now appears set on turning his attention to women’s professional soccer.

Sources close to Lasry confirmed that the Avenue Capital Group founder has held informal talks with both local and league stakeholders about the feasibility of launching a team—likely based in Milwaukee or another midwestern city with growing soccer infrastructure. While the NWSL has not formally announced another expansion window, growing viewership numbers and investor interest make further additions likely in the coming years.

A Growing League, a Seasoned Investor

The NWSL has seen rapid growth in recent years, both in terms of popularity and franchise valuations. With successful expansion teams like Angel City FC in Los Angeles and Bay FC in the Bay Area setting new standards for marketing and fan engagement, the league has become an attractive target for deep-pocketed investors like Lasry.

His interest in the NWSL is not new. Lasry has previously hinted at the potential of women’s soccer to not only draw passionate fanbases but also become a financially sound investment. According to those familiar with his strategy, Lasry is particularly intrigued by the opportunity to build a team from the ground up—something he only partially experienced during his time with the Bucks.

“Marc has always been bullish on sports as a long-term investment,” said one associate familiar with his thinking. “He sees women’s soccer as a global growth story, and he wants to be part of shaping its next chapter here in the U.S.”

Why Milwaukee?

Milwaukee offers some clear advantages for a potential NWSL franchise. The city has an emerging soccer scene, strong college programs, and an under-served market for top-tier women’s sports. With Lasry’s financial muscle and familiarity with the city’s sports ecosystem, a Milwaukee-based NWSL team could benefit from both grassroots support and major league infrastructure.

In 2024, the city hosted an NWSL exhibition match at American Family Field, which drew over 18,000 fans—a promising signal of market interest. Lasry was seen in attendance, further fueling speculation that he’s laying the groundwork for a formal bid.

What’s Next?

While there is no official timeline for a Lasry-backed team to join the NWSL, league commissioner Jessica Berman has previously stated that the league is open to the right expansion bids, particularly those backed by experienced owners with a demonstrated commitment to growing women’s sports.

As the NWSL considers its next steps, Lasry’s involvement adds a high-profile name to the conversation—one that could help the league tap into new markets and continue its upward trajectory.

For now, fans and analysts will be watching closely to see whether Lasry’s interest materializes into a formal proposal—and whether Milwaukee might soon find itself home to a new NWSL franchise.