There are no current intentions to change the ownership structure or sell the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL). Stan Kasten, a member of the PWHL’s advisory board, assured that the governance of the 12-team league would remain unchanged, despite co-founder Mark Walter divesting portions of his sports holdings due to ongoing U.S. federal inquiries into loans between his insurance firms and businesses connected to him.
Kasten emphasized that there are no anticipated alterations in PWHL ownership, stating that the league would persist with its enduring vision and dedication to establishing a sustainable organization, consistent with its founding principles. Walter, a prominent Chicago billionaire, holds interests in various professional sports franchises via TWG Global Holdings, including the Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Lakers, and other major teams.
Recent reports indicated that Walter’s enterprises are under investigation by U.S. federal prosecutors and the Securities and Exchange Commission for potential tax fraud. Notably, Walter recently agreed to a significant transaction involving the sale of the Los Angeles Lakers for a groundbreaking $12.5 billion to Josh Kushner and Bob Iger. This deal, if approved, would mark a notable shift in ownership for the NBA team.
Regarding potential investigations into Walter’s activities, regulatory bodies have not disclosed any official statements, redirecting inquiries to regional securities commissions. The PWHL, with subsidiaries in Toronto and Vancouver, attracted external investments from Kilmer Sports Ventures and Ilitch Sports and Entertainment in June. These investors played a pivotal role in supporting the league’s growth and development.
Mark Walter, along with his wife Kimbra Walter, founded the PWHL in 2022 under the Mark Walter Group. The league, established in collaboration with the Professional Women’s Hockey Players Association and Billie Jean King Enterprises, has rapidly expanded since its inception, with plans for further growth in new locations. The PWHL’s recent expansion initiatives include introducing teams in Hamilton, Detroit, San Jose, and Las Vegas, reflecting the league’s strategic vision for broader reach and engagement.
Kasten expressed optimism about the league’s trajectory, highlighting the remarkable progress achieved in a short span of time. He underscored the league’s vibrant future and the pride of its ownership group in the accomplishments to date and the prospects ahead. Despite external speculations, Kasten reaffirmed the stability of the Los Angeles Dodgers, emphasizing that there are no plans to sell the team, as the focus remains on achieving sporting excellence.
The acquisition of the Dodgers by Guggenheim Baseball Management in 2012, spearheaded by Walter, remains a significant milestone in the sporting landscape, with Walter holding a substantial ownership stake in the reigning World Series champions.
