Baker Mayfield buys first pro team alongside $610m NBA stars with ‘world-class’ stadium under construction

Baker Mayfield is giving back to Oklahoma.

The former Sooners quarterback has finally found a home in the NFL with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the Cleveland Browns franchise almost claimed yet another promising young passer.

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Mayfield has already earned as estimated $115.8 million in the league and is locked in talks over an extension that would net him plenty more.

Some of that money is going into Oklahoma City.

The QB is joining NBA star Jalen Williams, and four-time Olympic champion Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone as investors in OKC for Soccer.

The group is bidding to bring franchise and stadium district to Oklahoma City, with basketball icon Russell Westbrook, former USMNT star Jozy Altidore and Denver Broncos linebacker Nik Bonitto, already on board.

Westbrook earned over $350 million in The Association, while Williams netted $20 million on his rookie deal before agreeing a an extension with $240 million in guarantees.

Echo Investment Capital is leading the bid.

“This is a defining moment for Oklahoma City,” said Echo’s CEO Christian Kanady.

“We have always believed sports can be a catalyst for community and economic growth, and to have athletes of this calibre put their names and capital behind that vision is extraordinary.

“Jalen, Baker, and Sydney each bring a unique platform and an authentic belief in what we are building here.

“Together with Russell and Jozy, this investor roster reflects a level of conviction in Oklahoma City’s future you rarely see assembled around a single project.”

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Oklahoma City is set to join the USL Championship in 2028 and play at the MAPS 4 Multipurpose Stadium.

The 10,000-seat venue will also host a United Football League franchise, as well as concerts and major events, with Olympic softball and canoe slalom set for OKC in 2028.

“The MAPS 4 Multipurpose Stadium is an investment in the future of Oklahoma City and the talent pipeline for our youth,” Oklahoma City Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Jamie C. Polk said at the breaking ground ceremony.

“This world-class venue will bring our community together while giving students a place to compete, perform, celebrate graduation, and dream bigger about their future right here at home.”

“What drew me to this project is the belief that sports development, done well, shapes lives far beyond the field of play,” said McLaughlin-Levrone. Oklahoma City is investing in its young people in a serious way.

“By hosting events in the LA28 Olympic Games just minutes from this new stadium and entertainment district, Oklahoma City’s next generation of athletes and leaders will have access to world-class sports on their doorstep. That is the kind of legacy I want to invest in.”

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Baker Mayfield looking for mega extension

Mayfield is playing on a three-year, $100 million contract and will hit free agency in 2027.

Spotrac projects his market value at $214.4 million over four years.

The lack of a deal has seen speculation that the team may decide to move on, but the expectation is that terms will be agreed.

“I think both sides want to get it done,” Mayfield said via KFOR’s Kailey Carnine. “It’s a matter of finding that middle ground and what makes both sides happy.

“You know, like I fell in love with Norman, our family, we fell in love with Tampa Bay, and it’s a great place to raise kids and be around.”

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