With a major update on David Beckham’s MLS expansion franchise expected next week in Miami, a mega star from another sport is weighing in on whether it would be a success in South Florida.
The Miami Heat’s LeBron James, who is rumored to be a part of Beckham’s star-studded ownership group, was quoted by CBSMiami.com’s Tim Kephart as being fairly optimistic that Miami would not only be awarded the franchise but also that professional soccer would be a big hit on South Beach.
“I think it could be great. We’ll see what happens,” James said. “I think Miami is a great place for soccer. There’s so many great athletes that come from South Florida, Florida in general, and you know, the lower coast. Hopefully we can make it really good.”
A press conference is scheduled for next Wednesday, Feb. 5, in Miami, according to Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Gimenez. The Herald also reported that Gimenez and Beckham are scheduled to meet with MLS commissioner Don Garber next week to rally support for a soccer-only stadium in the area and provide an update on the league’s plans to expand to Miami for the 2017 season.
King James would certainly add caché to a potential Miami soccer club. But he has more to offer. If Beckham needs any advice on running the club, James said he can help. To the credit of the four-time NBA MVP, James does have some soccer experience.
He owns a minority stake in English Premier League club Liverpool FC.
“I’m not a soccer major, but I know talent and if they want my advice, I will give my advice, which I have some to give," he said. "Being with the Liverpool Football Club for the last three years has helped me learn a lot about personnel and team structure of that nature. I’m going to continue to learn.”
