SYSTEMIC RACISM IN EACH MAJOR SPORT

More black sports players are charged with crimes. Why?

Racial Disparities in the Legal System:

Studies show that Black individuals, including athletes, are often subjected to harsher legal scrutiny and penalties compared to their white counterparts.

Media framing can amplify bias—headlines sometimes portray Black athletes as more dangerous or problematic, while giving white athletes more favorable coverage or sympathy. source source

As of 2025, staggeringly low representation: Among the 151 major professional sports franchises in the U.S. (across the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and MLS), only one has had a Black majority owner in recent history—Michael Jordan, who owned the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets. That puts the percentage of Black majority ownership at less than 1%.

As of 2025

Black ownership remains extremely rare. Out of the 151 teams across the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and MLS, only one team has a Black majority owner: Michael Jordan, who owned the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets. He has since sold his majority stake, which means there may currently be no Black majority owners in any of the major leagues.

NBA: Historically, Michael Jordan was the only Black majority owner.

NFL: There are seven Black minority owners, including Magic Johnson and Venus & Serena Williams, but no Black majority owners. source

MLB, NHL, MLS: No known Black majority owners. source

NBA: Representation is stronger here. 14 out of 30 teams—roughly 46%—have either a Black general manager or a president/VP of basketball operations. source

Major League Baseball:

A study revealed a racial disparity in the MLB draft, where African American players were undervalued compared to White players with similar talent, particularly in later rounds. This can impact their compensation, likelihood of signing, and progression through the minor leagues. source

Despite the fact that over 70% of NFL players and more than 80% of NBA players are people of color, ownership ranks remain overwhelmingly white4. The disparity highlights a significant gap in representation at the highest levels of sports leadership. source source

Front Office 2025:

NFL: African Americans hold about 25% of general manager positions, with eight Black GMs currently in the league. source

Black ownership in professional U.S. soccer leagues like Major League Soccer (MLS) aren't publicly available. source source

In the NCAA, African American athletic directors make up approximately 13%. Despite black player representing 52% to 56%. Black athletic directors at Division I institutions account for only 19% of the total. source source

As of 2025:

Black NHL Owners: As of now, there are no Black principal owners of NHL teams. source

Black NHL General Managers: There is currently one Black GM in the league—Mike Grier of the San Jose Sharks. He made history in 2022 as the first Black GM in NHL history. source

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