Showbiz

Will Smith becomes part-owner of Philadelphia 76ers basketball team

Published Wednesday, Oct 19 2011, 22:43 BST | By Tom Eames | Add comment

Will Smith has become a part-owner of basketball team the Philadelphia 76ers.

Along with his wife Jada Pinkett Smith, the actor joined an investment group to own a minority stake of the sports franchise, and bought the club from Comcast-Spectacor, according to CSN Philly.

Investment leader and multi-billionaire Joshua Harris said at a press conference: "It is an honour to become part of this storied franchise. We have a lot of work to do, but we have a rich history, a strong foundation and a bright future."

Smith - as professed in the theme tune to The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air - was "born and raised" in West Philadelphia.

Sixers player Evan Turner revealed that he was excited upon hearing of Smith's involvement with the team. He tweeted: "I think it's dope that the fresh prince is one of our new owners. Maybe Willow can perform at halftime (sic)".

Will and Jada Pinkett Smith on several occasions dismissed reports that their marriage was coming to an end earlier this year.

The actor is reportedly planning a music comeback by recording a new rap album.

Watch the intro for The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air below: