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'We Got All Types of Superstars, Not Me': Jimmy Butler Shuns Fame To Honor Alex Morgan in Wave FC Move

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Sami Haider | Last updated Mar 30, 2026 2:58 PM ET

Jimmy Butler knows what it means to be a star. His six All-Star selections and heavyweight status in the NBA mean he commands attention wherever he goes. But coming face to face with soccer legend Alex Morgan stopped him in his tracks.

Even elite professional athletes are not immune to feeling the pull of someone whose greatness operates on a different level.

NBA star Jimmy Butler joins Wave FC as minority investor

Butler recently showed his deep respect for Morgan during a San Diego Wave FC match at Snapdragon Stadium.

A viral video captured the NBA star pointing at the former soccer professional with genuine excitement. He repeatedly mouthed her name to the camera while expressing total awe at her presence.

“We got all types of superstars, I’ll let y’all know,” Butler said. “Not me.” He then turned and pointed toward Morgan, mouthing her name for the camera. He kept repeating “That’s Alex Morgan,” as if he could not quite believe he was standing in the same room as her.

The 36-year-old basketball player claimed he was not a superstar compared to the people in that room. He watched the game to support his friend Melanie Barcenas.

San Diego Wave FC won that match 2-0 against Chicago Stars FC. Barcenas scored a goal in the 72nd minute of the game.

Butler and Morgan share a professional bond beyond this single viral moment. Both athletes are now minority investors in the San Diego Wave FC organization.

Morgan retired from professional soccer in late 2024 after an iconic career. She became an investor in 2025 to help build the future of women’s sports.

Butler followed her lead by officially joining the ownership group in October 2025. He stated that soccer has been a personal passion for a long time.

He wants to help set new standards for women’s sports off the pitch. The NBA star also recovered from a torn ACL during this period of transition.

Morgan is expanding her reach into other sports as well. She invested in the Unrivaled 3-on-3 basketball league through Trybe Ventures.

This firm belongs to her and her husband Servando Carrasco. Her influence continues to grow across multiple athletic disciplines as a business leader.

This interaction proves that respect between elite athletes is often about more than points or trophies. Butler recognized the cultural weight Morgan carries in the global sports community.

Her journey from a 2-time World Cup winner to a strategic investor sets a powerful example. Elite performers clearly find inspiration in those who define an entire era of their sport.

This article first appeared on Hardwood Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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