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Josh Harris

Josh Harris is an American investor, private equity executive, and sports team owner.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Josh Harris is an American investor, private equity executive, and sports team owner. He is best known as a co-founder of Apollo Global Management and as an owner or co-owner of several professional sports franchises, including the Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Devils, and Washington Commanders.

Early life and education

Josh Harris was born on December 29, 1964, and grew up in Maryland. He studied at the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and later attended Harvard Business School.

Investment career

Harris co-founded Apollo Global Management in 1990 with other partners and became one of the best-known figures in private equity. He later launched 26North as a new investment platform.

Sports ownership

Harris is widely known for his sports investments through Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment. His holdings have included major stakes in the Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Devils, Washington Commanders, and Crystal Palace.

Philanthropy

Harris founded Harris Philanthropies in 2014. The organization focuses on strengthening communities and developing leaders through equitable and inclusive investing.

Key facts

  • Co-founded Apollo Global Management in 1990.
  • Founded 26North, an alternative investment platform.
  • Owns stakes in the Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Devils, Washington Commanders, and Crystal Palace.
  • Founded Harris Philanthropies in 2014.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Josh Harris?
Josh Harris is an American investor and sports team owner best known as a co-founder of Apollo Global Management and a major figure in professional sports ownership.
What company did Josh Harris co-found?
He co-founded Apollo Global Management in 1990.
Which sports teams is Josh Harris associated with?
He has been linked to the Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Devils, Washington Commanders, and Crystal Palace.
What is 26North?
26North is an alternative investment platform founded by Josh Harris.
What is Harris Philanthropies?
Harris Philanthropies is a philanthropic organization founded by Josh Harris in 2014.
Where did Josh Harris go to school?
He studied at the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and attended Harvard Business School.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Josh_Harris_(businessman)
    Supports: Birth date, nationality, co-founding Apollo Global Management, sports ownership roles, and general biographical overview.
  2. Harris Philanthropies — https://harrisphilanthropies.org/who-we-are/
    Supports: Founding of Harris Philanthropies in 2014 and its mission.
  3. McKinsey & Company — https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/strategy-and-corporate-finance/our-insights/the-josh-harris-playbook-building-cultures-of-excellence-in-business-and-sports
    Supports: Role as cofounder of Apollo, sports holdings, and founding of 26North.
  4. Entrepreneur — https://www.entrepreneur.com/leadership/how-success-happened-for-josh-harris-co-founder-of-apollo/374991
    Supports: Apollo co-founding, later career developments, and HBSE-related business activities.
  5. Washingtonian — https://www.washingtonian.com/2023/04/13/five-things-to-know-about-josh-harris-the-washington-commanders-prospective-new-owner/
    Supports: Education at Wharton and Harvard, sports acquisitions, and philanthropic donations.