O’Melveny & Myers LLP represented Erick Thohir and Jason Levien in reaching a finalized agreement, announced today, to join Major League Soccer’s (MLS) DC United owner Will Chang as co-owners of the operating rights of the soccer club. Thohir and Levien will serve as managing partners, with Levien additionally serving as the MLS Governor.

Thohir, an Indonesian media businessman, became the first Asian owner in NBA history when he purchased a portion of the 76ers last year. Thohir is also the founder of AirAsia ASEAN Basketball League, the first regional professional sports league of its kind. Levien is the co-owner of the 76ers; and is the president and founder of LSRI, a firm specializing in investments in sports and media properties. Levien was an NBA player agent and worked for two seasons as an executive with the NBA’s Sacramento Kings.

“The opportunity to partner with Will and Jason brings exciting possibilities,” said Thohir. “DC United is a club with great tradition and history of winning. I am looking forward to helping with the continued development of DC United both on and off the field as well as expanding its reach as a global brand.”

“In partnering with Will, we are committed to ensuring the growth of DC United,” Levien added. “Our supporters deserve our very best effort and they’ll get exactly that.”

The O’Melveny Century City team was led by partner Robert Haymer and counsel Adam Sullins, with assistance from associate Adam Cooper. Partner Robert Blashek and associate Kate Mann advised on tax matters.

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