The New Jersey Devils are part of the third most valuable sports empire in the world. According to a recent ranking, Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE) is valued at $14.5 billion, placing it third among all global sports ownership groups. Led by Josh Harris and David Blitzer, HBSE owns several professional teams, including the New Jersey Devils (NHL), Philadelphia 76ers (NBA), Washington Commanders (NFL), and the Utica Comets (AHL). The organization describes itself as: “Recognized as one of the most innovative and entrepreneurial companies in the industry today, HBSE is a leading sports and entertainment company, with a focus on inspiring possibilities in people and enhancing the communities where we live, work, play, and win.” (Source: hbse.com [https://www.hbse.com]) Founded in 2017, HBSE has evolved far beyond just sports teams, becoming a powerful player in the broader entertainment and real estate space. TOP FIVE MOST VALUABLE SPORTS EMPIRES: 1. Kroenke Sports & Entertainment – $21.1 billion (Owns the Los Angeles Rams (NFL), Colorado Avalanche (NHL), Denver Nuggets (NBA), Colorado Rapids (MLS), and Colorado Mammoth (NLL)) 2. The Jones Family – $15.5 billion (Owns the Dallas Cowboys (NFL)) 3. Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment – $14.5 billion (Includes the Devils, 76ers, Commanders, Comets, and more) 4. Fenway Sports Group – $14.1 billion (Owns the Boston Red Sox (MLB), Pittsburgh Penguins (NHL), and has a stake in the PGA Tour) 5. Madison Square Garden Sports Corp. – $12.6 billion (Owns the New York Knicks (NBA) and New York Rangers (NHL)) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- HBSE acquired the New Jersey Devils and their home arena, the Prudential Center, in 2013 for a reported $320 million from former owner Jeff Vanderbeek, a former Wall Street executive. Since then, the ownership group has invested heavily in the franchise, improving arena operations, boosting community engagement, and spending on high-profile players and contracts. While the Devils haven’t won a Stanley Cup under HBSE’s ownership yet, the commitment to long-term growth and sustainability has been evident. The Devils are clearly run by a powerhouse group, a sports dynasty whose growing influence and financial muscle have shaped the team's direction both on and off the ice. Photo Credit: © Ed Mulholland-Imagn Images
