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Leslie Alexander is an American businessman, investor, and former attorney, best known for his ownership of the Houston Rockets from 1993 to 2017. He built his fortune through bond trading and investments, later becoming a prominent figure in the sports industry. Alexander's career spanned from Wall Street to the WNBA, and he is recognized for his business acumen and philanthropic efforts in the Houston community.
Leslie Lee Alexander was born in New York City in 1943. He graduated from New York University with a degree in economics in 1965. He later earned a Juris Doctor degree from Thomas Jefferson School of Law (formerly Western State University College of Law).
Alexander began his career trading options and bonds at Lawrence Kotkin Associates. In 1980, he founded The Alexander Group, an investment company. Alexander's business ventures included an 18.5% stake in First Marblehead, a private student loan company. His most notable achievement was purchasing the Houston Rockets in 1993 for $85 million.
Alexander's ownership of the Houston Rockets was marked by success, including back-to-back NBA championships in 1994 and 1995, led by Hakeem Olajuwon. He was named the NBA's best owner by Forbes in 2008. In 2017, Alexander sold the Rockets for a record $2.2 billion.
Alexander is known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly through the Leslie L. Alexander Foundation, which has supported numerous Houston-area causes, including education, health, and animal welfare.
Received a bachelor's degree in economics.
Established his own investment company.
Bought the NBA team for $85 million.
The Houston Rockets won back-to-back NBA championships.
Bought the WNBA team.
Recognized by Forbes Magazine.
Sold the team for $2.2 billion.
Supports Houston-area causes, including education, health, and animal welfare.
""I'm unbelievably optimistic" about the future of professional sports franchises, he said. "Content is king in entertainment. The NBA is looking to be on TV in Spain, China, Russia...the whole world is our oyster. We could easily see television revenue double in value in the next 10 to 15 years.”"
Demonstrated a keen ability to identify and invest in undervalued assets.
Dedicated to supporting the Houston community through philanthropic endeavors.
Divorced his wife Nanci, with a $150 million settlement. The divorce file was initially sealed.