Josh Harris rewarded loyal Washington Commanders fans with free beer following his official purchase of the NFL franchise from Dan Snyder.
Harris celebrated the $6.05 billion deal by calling into the “Grant and Danny” radio show in Washington, D.C., announcing he would be purchasing beers for all of the around 1,000 fans in attendance at the “Burgundy and Sold” Bullpen party Thursday night, per Sports Illustrated.
“Let’s go,” Harris said, via Awful Announcing. “I’m just leaving the league meeting, and I knew there was a party and a bunch of Washington fans there. I’m super pumped. It’s a great day for Washington football and I’m ready to get to work. I’m heading your way. I want to get to Washington, my hometown, and celebrate with you guys. Let’s get started by me buying everyone in the brewery and The Bullpen a beer. Can we do that?”
He added: “I’m gonna have to dip into my savings, but I want everyone to have a beer. Let’s do it.”
Josh Harris adds to portfolio by purchasing Washington Commanders
NFL owners voted unanimously Thursday to award the group led by Harris the Commanders’ franchise, which had been under the control of Snyder since 1999. Harris, 58, is also co-owner of the Philadelphia 76ers of the NBA and the New Jersey Devils of the NHL.
“As a lifelong Washington football fan who grew up here, I know that the Commanders are more than just a sports team,” Harris wrote in a statement. “This is an institution, passed down from generation to generation. From day one, it is our top priority to deliver you a championship caliber team… We will strive everyday to ensure that we are a franchise you can be proud of. To Commanders fans everywhere, our promise is simple: We will do the work, create the culture and make the investment needed to deliver for this team and for Washington.”
NBA legend Magic Johnson will notably have a hand in running the franchise as a minority member of the ownership group. The 63-year-old fired off a statement of his own.
“God is so good…I still can’t believe it! I am currently living in an answered prayer. Since beginning my journey as an athlete and now businessman and team owner, it’s all been a dream that has come full circle,” Johnson wrote. “I grew up playing football as a kid, I’m a huge NFL fan, and I watch games every week. Now, I get to co-own a storied franchise, the Washington Commanders.
“I’m especially thankful to Josh Harris who allowed me to be one of his partners with the Commanders. He is an amazing man, great friend, incredible businessman, proven owner and winner with the Philadelphia 76ers. Josh and his team have been first class throughout this entire process. Our ownership team is committed to the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia community and fanbase to bring a winning team and best in class organization.”
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