The sports brand was revitalizing athletics across San José. Billy's investments extended far beyond multiple football and basketball academies, many of which were sponsored by the professional teams he had acquired. The Golden State Warriors were at the forefront, nurturing young talent and developing female teams across different age brackets every two years: U-11, U-13, U-15, U-17, and U-19. It wasn't just about competition; substantial funds were allocated to infrastructure, including ice rinks, tennis complexes, and multi-purpose sports centers, expanding into various locations—San Francisco, Berkeley, San José, San Mateo, Alameda, Monterey, and Los Angeles.
-You're hired.- said Jolie Carter, the HR manager, as she signed the final document for the new Lux Sports Foundation. This non-profit organization was dedicated to expanding sports throughout California, providing generous donations and top-tier equipment, funded by Lux Animation, a powerhouse conglomerate. The foundation's divisions were structured with a clear mission: to support education, sports, and entertainment.
Its operations focused on identifying talent and recruiting young hopefuls eager to make headlines. The initiative promised to elevate teamwork and foster strong collaborations with major sports institutions, such as the NBA, FNA, and elite open tournaments—highly competitive events that shaped the sports landscape.
-I guess we should brace ourselves for countless challenges. Sports have always intrigued me, but leading a foundation of this scale… I see nothing but hurdles ahead.- said Aaron Murphy. A lesser-known basketball player, Aaron retired at 26 after struggling to secure a place in the professional leagues. However, he redirected his focus, returning to academia and specializing in sports management with aspirations of becoming a team assistant. He studied under top executives, later becoming a professor at the University of Colorado, where he pursued a Ph.D. in Business Administration. His dissertation on "Corporate Human Capital" was widely praised.
With a decade of experience as an athletic director across three universities, he now found himself at Lux Sports—one of the most attractive enterprises in the U.S. market. The company, beloved for its extensive ventures across multiple industries, had set its sights on an ambitious project involving professional teams and youth development programs. Becoming the executive director of a non-profit wasn't just a career move—it was a stepping stone. The salary, while slightly higher than that of his university positions, wasn't extravagant, but it covered his expenses and offered an excellent benefits package.
-Then get to work. The headquarters is still under construction, but you'll need to make frequent visits to oversee our progress. For now, you'll have two people under your supervision. You'll need to develop a management plan, draft corporate manuals with our legal team, and establish administrative processes.- said Jolie Carter, handing him a thick binder—a comprehensive ten-year strategic plan outlining financial forecasts, integral project roadmaps, and independent team development structures.
-It's a long-term undertaking. I'll start with just one team—the basketball team—and from there, we'll create the necessary framework.- replied Aaron Murphy, choosing to begin with what he knew best. From that foundation, he would gradually expand into other divisions, shaping the organization step by step.
***
The Golden State Warriors were in good shape, led by Garry St. Je, n—one of the most seasoned players in the game. Billy had assembled a team with remarkable synergy, but now came the crucial decision: the draft. Three names stood out—Kobe Bryant or Steve Nash, both available for selection.
Billy's demands were ambitious, perhaps even overly aggressive. But talent was talent. Even if the price doubled—three or four million dollars—it was an investment worth making. His goal was to attract top-tier players, reshape the team's image, and establish a legacy far beyond the usual business dealings of the league. If he could bring in elite coaches, legendary athletes, and major sports personalities, his vision would materialize.
-The owner didn't ask for immediate results.- said a nervous Garry St. Jean, analyzing the figures. The contract was structured around pure meritocracy: $1 million for two years, another million for making the draft, $2 million for reaching the semifinals, $4 million for making the finals, and a staggering $8 million for winning the championship. An enormous incentive—but a distant dream when compared to the meteoric Bulls, who dominated every aspect of the game with ruthless precision.
-In a way, we've reached a position that seems to be exactly what we wanted. But that desire will only be fulfilled if we work through the obstacles ahead.- said Mike German, the general administrator. While his financial power was limited for now, he was deeply involved in every operational detail, almost like an owner himself.
-We just need to make the right bets to strengthen the roster. It makes sense to invest in massage therapists and statistical analysts. Integrating technology into sports isn't a bad idea—it's just the natural progression of a great team.- replied Garry St. Jean.
Nearby, the organization had already acquired a small plot of land to build outdoor courts, gyms, and nutrition centers, ensuring regulated diets for the athletes, at least during training sessions.
-Let's focus on restructuring. We'll work with what we have and improve as we go. I prefer technically skilled teams over those that rely purely on aggression. But right now, we need to innovate our playstyle, refresh our squad, and experiment with new strategies—it's our best option.- said Mike German.
The Warriors were near the bottom of the standings, but they were just five spots away from breaking into the top eight.
***
As player contracts were being finalized, other divisions of Lux Animation were actively seeking partnerships with various organizations for the upcoming winter sports season. With Panini Albums providing promotional coverage and Lux Sports backing multiple initiatives, small yet strategic revenue streams were flowing in. Lux's sponsorships extended to U.S. athletes and provided support to the national sports committee, which was rapidly expanding across the country.
-We'll be distributing essential equipment to underprivileged players. In total, we have 31 athletes who need full gear.- said Anne. Since leaving New York, she had embraced a newfound sense of confidence and authority.
-Yes, ma'am.-
-Make sure everything is handled transparently. I don't want any irregularities—everything must be public. If you're overwhelmed, just let me know.-
-No, director, I'll personally oversee the funds and ensure every last dollar is accounted for publicly.- Anne replied firmly. Despite her composed and professional demeanor, deep inside, she was still captivated by the days she had spent with Billy—days that had left a lasting impression on her. Beneath her poised exterior, her heart burned with a longing she knew was both profound… and forbidden.
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