OKLAHOMA CITY — Former U.S. Men’s National Team striker Jozy Altidore has teamed up with NBA superstar Russell Westbrook as part of the OKC for Soccer ownership group, the organization announced on Thursday.
The ownership group has acquired the rights to a USL Championship team, which was formerly known as the OKC Energy. They aim to have the team ready for a new stadium set to open in downtown Oklahoma City in 2028.
Altidore, a two-time U.S. Soccer Player of the Year and World Cup veteran, has played in both the English Premier League and Spain’s LaLiga.
“It’s not often you find a club so intricately connected to its community from the start,” Altidore stated. “This aligns perfectly with our goal to foster a world-class atmosphere for soccer in OKC across all levels.”
Joining Altidore in the ownership group are primary owners Echo Investment Capital, his business partner Alex Lee, and the Chickasaw Nation.
“We’re excited to have Jozy Altidore and Alex Lee join the OKC for Soccer family,” said Christian Kanady, founding partner and CEO of Echo. “Jozy brings unparalleled credibility, a player’s insight into talent development, and the capacity to motivate the upcoming generation both on and off the field.”