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Phoenix Sports Partners
Bob Barnett's Phoenix Sports Partners operates as a buy-and-build sports tech firm, controlling companies from youth to professional levels.
Phoenix Sports Partners
Phoenix Sports Partners is a sports technology, media, and marketing investment company. It invests in, owns, and starts sports technology companies connected to high school and youth sports.
General information
Firm type
Generalist
Year founded
—
AUM
Undisclosed
Location
Region
North America
Country
United States
City
Chicago
Corporate office
Chicago, IL, United States
Principals
Bob Barnett
Fundraising and deal activities lead
Kevin Murray
Deal negotiation and structure lead
Michael Kenney
Board member and senior advisor
Steve Hollis
Financial management lead
Len Lillard
Board member
Alice Luo
Investment, research, finance, and accounting support
Sector focus
Frequently asked questions
What is the relationship between Phoenix Sports Partners and Wexford Capital Partners?
Bob Barnett, who leads fundraising and deal activities at Phoenix, is the founder of Wexford Capital Partners. Kevin Murray, who manages deal negotiation at Phoenix, is also a Partner at Wexford. The two firms share key personnel and an investment platform, with Phoenix operating as a specialized sports tech conduit under that umbrella.
How does Phoenix Sports Partners differ from a traditional venture capital firm?
Phoenix describes itself as an operating company rather than a fund. It takes a partnership-driven approach, providing expertise, connections, and capital directly to portfolio companies, then applying a buy-and-build strategy to drive scalable growth and profitability. This contrasts with the typical VC model of passive minority investments.
What sports levels does Phoenix target through its investments?
The firm explicitly targets companies operating across youth, collegiate, and professional sports. Its portfolio company Atavus, for example, certifies coaches and provides tackle consulting at multiple levels of the game.
Does Phoenix Sports Partners have a dedicated technology focus?
Yes. The firm specializes in sports technology and data, investing in disruptive technologies, services, and platforms that offer technology-driven strategies and solutions for the sports market.
Who are the key investment decision-makers at Phoenix?
Bob Barnett leads fundraising and deal sourcing, while Kevin Murray handles deal negotiation and structure. Michael Kenney and Len Lillard serve as board members and senior advisors, contributing to strategic direction. The firm does not publicly disclose an investment committee structure.
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