Jimmy Haslam Expands Role with Milwaukee Bucks Amid NFL Ownership Concerns

When an NFL team owner also holds a stake in a sports franchise in another market, it creates an unusual dynamic—especially given the unspoken expectation that teams in the same region should support one another, despite competing for fan loyalty and revenue.

In Cleveland, Browns owner Jimmy Haslam owns a significant portion of the NBA’s Milwaukee Bucks. Now, Haslam is taking on a more prominent role with the Bucks, signaling a shift in his priorities.

Haslam attended and participated in a press conference introducing the Bucks’ new head coach, Taylor Jenkins. During the event, he made it clear that his involvement with the team will grow. “Do I think we’ll be here more? I do,” Haslam said, according to Jonathan X. Simmons of the Cleveland Plain Dealer.

This was Haslam’s first public appearance as a member of the Bucks’ ownership team. His remarks also touched on the future of the Bucks’ star player, Giannis Antetokounmpo, whose potential trade status remains unresolved. “We don’t know whether Giannis will stay with us or not, but we'll work through that with Giannis in the coming weeks,” Haslam stated, per the Associated Press.

Impact on the Cleveland Browns

With Haslam dedicating more time to the Bucks, questions arise about how this shift will affect the Browns. Over his 14-year tenure as owner, Haslam has been linked to several high-profile missteps, including:

• The selection of quarterback Johnny Manziel with a first-round pick
• The failed adoption of baseball-style analytics under former executive Paul DiPodesta
• The late 2010s tanking strategy, which included financial incentives for stockpiling draft picks and carrying over cap space
• The 2022 trade for and contract extension of quarterback Deshaun Watson, widely regarded as the worst transaction in NFL history

While Haslam has repeatedly denied interfering in football operations, the outcomes suggest otherwise. A reduction in his focus on the Browns could potentially benefit the team—or at least prevent further missteps.

Similarly, the Cleveland Cavaliers may also see indirect advantages if Haslam’s attention shifts away from the Browns.