Super sports agent Rich Paul already works with such superstars ad LeBron James, so what could top that? A new post leading a brand new sports division at mega-agency United Talent. That’s what.
“United Talent Agency, one of the top leading representation firms in Hollywood, has teamed up with NBA agent Rich Paul to create a sports division for the entertainment company,” the Shadow League reported.
Currently, Paul, 37, represents more than two dozen NBA players under his Klutch Sports Group banner, including James and Anthony Davis.
“We’ve been looking for the right sports opportunity for quite a while,” said Jeremy Zimmer, the talent agency’s chief executive. “We have taken a significant stake in Klutch, but Rich retains very substantial controls because we want it to be his business and we love what he’s doing.”
UTA counts Kevin Hart, Angelina Jolie, and Tiffany Haddish.
The deal will give Paul a chance to expand the reach of his clients beyond the sports world.
“This puts me in direct competition with the largest agencies in the world,” Paul told The Athletic. “There is nothing we cannot do for an athlete. If a guy wants to write a book, great. If he wants to be a Fortnite champion, great. If he wants to act, great. He wants to buy a surfboard company? Fantastic. There is nothing we cannot do for the modern athlete.”
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James weighed in on the deal as well. He said: “I knew from day one Rich was going to build something totally different. He understood players needed a new way to operate on and off the floor. And I know Klutch is just beginning. I’m so proud of what he’s built and to be able to call a real innovator my brother.”
