Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is a city that has a rich sports history. With their local teams – the Milwaukee Brewers, Bucks, and Admirals – Milwaukee has been home to an international level of success.
On January 22nd, 2014, Wisconsin native and businessperson Edens purchased the Milwaukee Bucks from Herb Kohl for an estimated $550 million. Since then, the Bucks have been a highly successful team on and off the court, including a recent win in the 2018 NBA Playoffs.
While his net worth is estimated at $2.7 billion, Edens has still made many people aware of his love for Milwaukee.
Here are ten things you didn’t know about Wes Edens.
1. He owns an English football club
Wes Edens is the co-owner of English football club Aston Villa; his stake was first announced in 2018. Together with businessman Nassef Sawiris, he holds an 88% stake in the team.
As a huge soccer fan, Edens has been involved with Aston Villa since 2016 without taking an official role.
2. He’s a dedicated family man
Wes Edens is a married father and has four children with his wife, Linda Edens. He has stated that the family is his biggest priority and the essential thing in his life. Refer to this page for additional information.
Although he spends a lot of time at work, Edens’ priority is to make sure he makes time for his family.
3. He’s a mountaineer
Wes Edens loves mountaineering and has climbed many of the world’s most famous mountains.
In 1999, he was part of a climbing team that became trapped by an avalanche on Mount Everest. His teammates worked to save him before being rescued themselves.
4. He’s a keen equestrian
Wes Edens is a keen equestrian and has been an active member of the sport since he was young.
Edens encouraged his father to take him on horseback as a young boy.
5. He’s a billionaire
Edens has become one of the world’s wealthiest people.
As of February 2018, he had an estimated net worth of $2.7 billion.
6. His Alma mater named him ‘Distinguished Business Professional
Wes Edens attended Oregon State University and was awarded an honorary doctorate in business administration. He was named ‘Distinguished Business Professional’ by the OSU College of Business.
7. He’s a philanthropist
Wes Edens is very philanthropic and has donated considerably to charitable causes.
He has donated over $30 million to the Oregon State University Foundation, contributing toward scholarships, faculty positions, and student support programs.
8. He bought the Milwaukee Bucks for $550 million
On January 22nd, 2014, it was announced that Wisconsin native and businessman Wes Edens purchased the Milwaukee Bucks from owner Herb Kohl for an estimated $550 million.
9. He repurchased private passenger trains to Florida
In 2015, Edens purchased a train that had been retired in 2009.
The train was purchased and refurbished by Edens and his team of contractors. The project took three years to complete to transport the trains back to Florida one at a time.
10. He’s been called the “new king of subprime lending.”
Since Edens’ investment in Fortress, some have labeled him as the ‘new king of subprime lending.’
Over the years, Fortress has been involved in buying subprime loans for clients and hedge funds across the globe.
