Angel City Football Club (ACFC) has once again raised the bar for women’s sports, announcing that NBA superstar Chris Paul, philanthropist and Horizons Ventures co-founder Solina Chau, organizational development consultant and diversity advocate Ina Coleman, and entrepreneur-producer Paul Bernon have joined the club’s dynamic ownership group.
The additions reflect ACFC’s consistent strategy of blending world-class talent with voices that champion equality, innovation, and social change.
Expanding a Purpose-Driven Ownership
“Chris, Solina, Ina, and Paul exemplify the values and vision that define ACFC,” said Controlling Owner Willow Bay. “Their leadership across business, sport, advocacy, and social impact makes them ideal partners as we continue building a world-class club that is forward-thinking, inclusive, and ambitious.”
- Chris Paul: 12-time NBA All-Star and two-time Olympic gold medalist, Paul brings global sporting recognition and a passion for advancing women’s sports. “It’s an incredible honor to join Angel City FC as an investor and owner… it’s a chance to support women’s sports and help drive positive change,” he said.
- Solina Chau: Co-founder of Horizons Ventures, Chau has a global track record of innovation and social impact investment. “Angel City’s commitment to advancing women, building inclusive communities, and disrupting the status quo deeply resonates with my values,” she shared.
- Ina Coleman: A recognized consultant and gender equity advocate, Coleman emphasized the broader mission. “Joining Angel City allows me to help amplify a movement toward genuine inclusion and representation, both in sport and society,” she said.
- Paul Bernon: Managing Partner of PMB Ventures, Bernon is a Peabody Award-winning producer and founding investor in the Angel City Impact Fund. “Angel City is rewriting the playbook for what a sports organization can and should be,” he noted.
ACFC’s Position in Women’s Sports
Since its founding, ACFC has become the benchmark for women’s professional sports organizations globally.
- Commercial success: The club generated an estimated $35 million in 2024, leading the NWSL in attendance, fan engagement, and revenue.
- Valuation: With a reported $280 million valuation, ACFC ranks among the most valuable women’s teams in the world.
- Cultural footprint: More than 100 investors make up its diverse ownership group, spanning Hollywood icons (Natalie Portman, Jennifer Garner, Eva Longoria), sports legends (Billie Jean King, Mia Hamm, Abby Wambach), musicians (Christina Aguilera, Becky G), and business leaders.
This broad base underscores ACFC’s model: combining star power with purpose to drive visibility, impact, and commercial strength.
Lessons from ACFC’s Ownership Model
- Equity Meets Advocacy
ACFC is not only attracting capital but aligning ownership with cultural influencers. This expands the fan base beyond football into entertainment, activism, and lifestyle. Other clubs should explore ownership structures that reflect broader movements in society. - Valuation Through Storytelling
ACFC’s $280m valuation isn’t just about ticket sales; it’s about narrative power. Framing a club as a platform for equity, culture, and innovation can multiply brand value. - Premium Community Engagement
By linking ownership with celebrity and activist voices, ACFC keeps its fan base emotionally invested. This model can be replicated: position sports teams as community impact organizations first, sports clubs second. - Commercial Scale in Women’s Sports
ACFC proves women’s sports can deliver top-tier revenues if marketed as cultural movements, not niche properties. Investors should note the scalability of this approach.
Final Word
Angel City FC isn’t just building a team — it’s building a movement. By adding Chris Paul, Solina Chau, Ina Coleman, and Paul Bernon, the club continues to prove that ownership can be a statement as much as an investment.
Don’t Just Watch Sport, Understand It. Join the 365247 Newsletter for daily insights
