Shawn Kemp is getting into the cannabis business.
Shawn Kemp might be tied forever to the green and gold of the Seattle SuperSonics, but his business ventures post-retirement show that he’s more of a blazer at heart than he previously let on.
Kemp, who has gotten into the restaurant business since giving up basketball in the mid-2000s, is giving it a go in the marijuana industry. Kemp is opening the first Black-owned dispensary in the city of Seattle. Named “Kemp’s Cannabis”, he will be joined by fellow SuperSonics legend Gary Payton for the grand opening on October 30.
“My name is on this company and I have worked hard to bring Shawn Kemp’s Cannabis to fruition,” said Kemp. “I want to provide nothing short of the best selection, customer experience, and prices in Seattle.”
Shawn Kemp was a freak of nature in his prime
While some fans remember the guy who started to balloon in weight near the end of his Cleveland Cavaliers and Orlando magic tenures, Kemp was a legit star in Seattle during his prime who became one of the most recognizable stars of the mid-1990s.
Nicknamed “Reign Man”, Kemp was a six-time All-Star who averaged 16.2 points and 9.6 rebounds per game despite having to share the ball with Payton. His reputation as one of the best dunkers of all time is secure as well. With Payton shutting things down on the defensive end and Kemp nearly tearing the rim down, Seattle was a perennial playoff team in the 90s.
Considering the success that former NBA player Al Harrington has had with his “Viola” brand, there is clearly a gap in the cannabis market that former NBA stars with enough business sense can exploit. The SuperSonics remain an institution in Seattle, so Kemp should see a steady stream of business at his new venture.