Sources: Cards’ Fitzgerald buys share of Suns

Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald has purchased a minority stake in the Phoenix Suns, becoming the second active NFL player with an NBA ownership share, league sources tell ESPN.

The limited partnership has been in the works for months, if not longer, and it allows Fitzgerald to join Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who purchased a stake in the Milwaukee Bucks in 2018, as the only NFL players now a part of NBA ownership of teams.

Fitzgerald, second all-time in NFL receiving yards, has built a strong relationship with Suns managing partner Robert Sarver. Fitzgerald, 36, had already taken on a significant ambassador’s role with the Suns. Even so, his presence has been more than ceremonial. While Fitzgerald has done everything from sit in on potential front office candidate interviews to canvass for a Suns public arena vote, he won’t take a more active role with the Suns until his professional football playing career is over, sources told ESPN. He’s been a season ticket holder with the team since 2005.

An iconic Arizona sporting and philanthropic figure, Fitzgerald is expected to bring an additional level of credibility to Sarver and the Suns. Fitzgerald, 36, has been engaged in well-regarded charitable foundations in the Phoenix-area for much of his career. He was honored as the NFL’s 2016 Walter Payton Man of the Year.

Fitzgerald is considered the greatest Cardinal player in history, breaking every significant offensive receiving record in franchise history. He’s been voted an All-Pro in 11 of his 16 pro seasons.