Rich Paul, who founded Klutch Sports Group in 2012, is merging with United Talent Agency to start a sports division. Klutch will retain its own branding and operate under UTA. Paul stated to the New York Times that, “nothing changes” in terms of how Klutch’s basketball business will operate. It is unknown how big on an investment UTA made with Paul’s agency.
Paul who is synonymous with longtime friend and client LeBron James has made a big name for himself in the industry. In June, he became the first basketball agent to be featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated. The magazine described him as “the most discussed, admired, loathed, ridiculed, daring and feared” agent in the sport. Now with a bigger force behind him at UTA, Paul has all the fire power to reach even bigger heights.
Paul also represents over 20 other NBA players including Anthony Davis, Ben Simmons, and Draymond Green. Paul got his start in the agency industry with the help of his friend, client, and business partner LeBron James. Paul worked under Leon Rose, LeBron’s agent at the time, at Creative Artists Agency before leaving to start Klutch.
UTA competes with CAA and William Morris Endeavor in other areas of the entertainment industry including film, television, and broadcasting. Now with Paul leading the charge, they’ll be able to compete in the sports industry.
UTA represents several A-list actors including Angelina Jolie, Chris Pratt, and Kevin Hart.
Although Paul, who represents LeBron will work under UTA, LeBron’s media company, SpringHill Entertainment, will continue to be managed by WME. LeBron’s SpringHill Entertainment and Warner Bros. are currently filming Space Jam 2.
