Nick Kyrgios teams up with NBA stars to become co-owner of NBL team South East Melbourne Phoenix

Nick Kyrgios has turned his love of basketball into an investment by joining the ownership group of NBL team South East Melbourne Phoenix.

The deal was announced on the eve of the Australian Open, as the 2022 Wimbledon runners-up took a second step towards sporting investments.

He recently invested in Miami PC alongside four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka, which will compete in the US Major Pickleball League next year.

A friendship with Phoenix owner Romie Chaudhari goes beyond Kyrgios’ investment move.

Kyrgios is owned by an NBL team alongside former NBA champion Andrew Bogut. Bogut is co-owner of reigning champions Sydney Kings.

Kyrgios – who has often spoken about his love for the NBA’s Boston Celtics and played in a celebrity match in Sydney last April – has acquired a stake in South East Melbourne Phoenix

The tennis star said he will be spending more time in Australia from now on – so he can get up close and personal with the Phoenix (pictured playing in Cairns on January 8).

Phoenix’s ownership group also includes NBA star John Wall and former NBA players Al Harrington, Josh Childress, Dante Exum and Zach Randolph.

“Everyone knows my basketball roots and that I’m part of the NBL. There has been so much growth, it’s a huge step for me, I’m excited to step on board and do whatever it takes to help the team grow. Great pleasure for me to be a part of it.

“I’m one of those tennis players that doesn’t travel that much, I’d like to be in Australia a little bit more, whenever they need my help or support I’m willing to do whatever I can. I will give them my time.

“I have a lot of things to do but this is the biggest thing to be honest. My tennis career will not last forever.

Kyrgios trained on Center Court at Melbourne Park on Thursday as he prepared for his Australian Open campaign after overcoming an ankle and knee problem that forced him out of the United Cup and Adelaide International.

Los Angeles Clippers NBA star John Wall (pictured) is also part of the Phoenix ownership group

“My knee feels good, my ankle feels good,” he said.

“I don’t think anyone is feeling 100 per cent as some people are already getting out so it’s normal for everyone to be struggling with injuries at this time of year.

“But I’m one of the best players in the world, so I’ll go into the tournament with confidence.”

Despite his own hopes, Kyrgios said nine-time champion Novak Djokovic remains favorite to win even after his injury woes on Wednesday.