For many NBA players, business often becomes a focus after their sports careers. One standout example of a smooth transition from player to business mogul is Isiah Thomas. The 63-year-old has always emphasized that his basketball skills played a crucial role in his business ventures. By collaborating with various individuals and brands, and drawing inspiration from fellow entrepreneurs, Thomas gradually built a massive business empire.

What inspired him? There have been rare moments when the Pistons’ Bad Boy has shared how he effectively translated his skills into his business endeavors.

Why did Isiah Thomas choose ice cream and candies for his first business? 

It’s not the ice cream, but the thought process that helped Thomas further in his business. It is not bizarre after you get to know the reason behind his decision. After being inspired by his high school teacher, who advised him to invest in things he liked, Thomas founded Isiah International in 1990. 

The company initially sold candy bars and ice cream along with an Isiah Bar in Detroit. Candies and ice cream were what he liked the most. The game changer for him was acquiring the printing company, American Speedy Printing Centers Inc. He played a crucial role in rescuing the company from bankruptcy.

He soon gained quite a knowledge of Start-ups. And at the same time, Thomas kept learning more from his peers. The 2x NBA champ was also a member of the Board of Governors of the Chicago Stock Exchange for three years until 2002.

He wisely chose each of his investments that later boosted his net worth which is currently $100 million. He has earned around $16.7 million from his NBA career. Currently, his holding company features a diverse range of brands that significantly contribute to the earth and the community as well.

It now features businesses involved in champagne, reuse and recycling, sustainable hemp business, and more. “I was always interested in investing in things that impacted the community, impacted the family, and had a chance to make sure there was some legacy coming behind. My economics teacher told me to invest in things that I like,” Thomas said, via New York Amsterdam News. 

The most important aspect of his business is his passion for creativity and innovation which constantly drove him to success.

Isiah Thomas’ various business endeavors

Detroit Pistons legend Isiah Thomas has made significant strides in real estate through his company, Isiah Real Estate. His investment portfolio further includes One World Products, Sweetgreen, Popcorn Indiana, and more. 

After winning his first NBA title and wine-tasting experience, Thomas ventured into the wine industry, joining Cheurlin Champagnes. He also joined into the hemp business, finding it quite intriguing.

“One World products, why we chose to cultivate in Colombia, is the same reason why we chose France for champagne. The soil, the sun, and the farmers and the workers you work with in terms of the indigenous farmers and growers. In Colombia, right now, we partner with the Afro-Colombia community there, and have been granted 1.2 million acres of land to grow industrial hemp.” Thomas said.

In 1994, Thomas acquired a 4.5% stake in the Toronto Raptors. He later purchased an additional 4.5%, bringing his total stake to 9%. Although he initially aimed to secure a majority stake, he eventually sold his 9% share, which would have been worth about $15 million.

Apart from his business ventures, Thomas has held various roles in coaching and management. He has coached teams such as the Indiana Pacers and New York Knicks and served as president of the WNBA’s New York Liberty. “The first [thing being a business owner] teaches you in terms of basketball is teamwork. You have to work together collectively to make something happen in terms of vision and goal,” Thomas noted.

The NBA legend hasn’t slowed down and is always on track to expand its business empire further in the coming years.

Stay tuned for more such updates and join us for the exciting second episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and Mountain West All-Freshman Team Selection, Asia Avinger.