Travis Knipe to join Melbourne United ownership group

Melbourne United is excited to announce that Melbourne-based entrepreneur Travis Knipe will join the club’s ownership group and board of directors after acquiring a 30% shareholding in the club.

Knipe is the Executive Chairman and former CEO of StarRez, a global PropTech and EdTech company, and Chairman of Children’s Fortress Africa (CFA), a Nairobi-based organisation supporting street-connected and at-risk children through education, healthcare and community programs.

A sports enthusiast, Knipe touched on his excitement following the move.

“I am thrilled to become an owner of Melbourne United,” he said. 

“This is an organisation with a rich history of sustained success, a great culture, amazing fan base, and an outstanding team of current and past legends of the game. 

“Together with my wife Jessica, and sons Zack and Jake – we are really passionate about supporting the next chapter of growth and success for this amazing team.”

Knipe’s 30% share acquisition brings the club's estimated valuation up to $50 million dollars, a record figure for an Australian-based basketball club.

With this move, Melbourne United would like to thank the members of the ownership group who have supported the team passionately across our history.

Former owners Simon Hupfeld, Chris Moore, Simon Kelly and Callum Howard, as well as Michael Schneider, have helped the club grow to the point where it is today, and we wish them all the best in their future endeavours.

Melbourne United CEO Nick Truelson thanked the departing members, while outlining his anticipation ahead of what's to come with Knipe as a major part of the club’s future.

“Simon Hupfeld, Chris Moore, Simon Kelly, Callum Howard, and Michael Schneider are all key reasons why the club has been able to continue to compete for Championships each season, and for that we thank them for their dedication to Melbourne United over the years.

“Our hope is that this will continue with the addition of Travis Knipe alongside all other remaining owners, and Melbourne United can challenge for the game’s top prize across the seasons ahead of us.”

To see the club’s full list of Melbourne United’s Board members and Shareholders, click here.

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