Raghav Chopra
Cryptocurrency and blockchain technology have the potential to significantly transform the sports industry, offering new opportunities for fan engagement, revenue generation, and operational efficiency. There is one more aspect of cryptocurrency that has sports players and executives interested.
Bitcoin as an investment is a potential gamechanger for athletes who have a short career span and need a stable asset to put their earnings into.
Bitcoin Conference goes beyond business
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As the Venetian Casino and Hotel in Las Vegas plays host to the who’s who of the crypto and blockchain industry, people from all walks of life are descending at the venue to catch sessions by high-profile speakers like Michael Saylor, co-founder of Strategy, and U.S. Vice President JD Vance. The conference will run from 27 to 29 May.
Ian Rubel is one such Bitcoin aficionado who runs a consultancy representing elite basketball players called Premier Sports Council. Ian, who as an agent worries about the life the player has post-retirement, is excited about what Bitcoin has to offer to athletes.
“When I started investing it was in the traditional big companies, the ‘Magnificent Seven’, and I would see my money grow. I love the statement ‘let your money work for you, don’t work for your money.’ These athletes might not be highly educated from top schools but they are very wise due to their experiences. Bitcoin is great for them because you don’t need a lot of money to make a lot of money.”
So, what made Ian travel from his home in New York to The Venetian in Las Vegas?
“I want to educate myself on Bitcoin so I know what to do with my holdings for my children. But also, for my players. I want to talk about Bitcoin to my players so I can speak more confidently on what’s happening in other countries, in regulation, and as an investment.”
As the appeal for Bitcoin grows, sports stars have begun to take notice too. Ian has many players coming to him seeking advice on Bitcoin.
“To me it’s about having a long time spent and the money to not be touched for 5, 10, 15 years. I have players who are near the end of their careers coming to me and asking about how they can invest in crypto, but younger players are still not fully aware about it. The average career span of a player in the NBA is 3 to 4 years. When a player starts he is making a lot of money and he thinks this will last him forever but as they see their careers coming to an end they start thinking about long-term investments.”
Crypto is a slam-dunk for the sports industry
The relationship between Bitcoin and basketball goes beyond just investment opportunities. Many athletes have begun developing their digital projects, creating unique digital collectibles, and partnering with blockchain-based platforms that allow fans to engage with the sport in innovative ways.
These blockchain based initiatives drive fan engagement through digital memorabilia or exclusive access to content. These digital assets are not the same as traditional merchandise. Thanks to blockchain technology, they can be verified for authenticity and ownership.
While there is a lot to be excited about when it comes to the adoption of blockchain and crypto in the sports industry, there are many challenges still holding this collaboration back. The need of the hour is to spread awareness about the potential of this partnership, and that’s where events like The Bitcoin Conference 2025 have a role to play.
