LeBron James' Blaze Pizza investment grew 35-40 times in five years

NBA star LeBron James and his investment partners put less than $1 million into Blaze Pizza in 2012. By July 2017, the value of his stake had grown significantly, with estimates ranging from $25 million to $40 million when accounting for various payment structures.

The investment, made through a partnership arrangement, demonstrated the potential returns from early-stage involvement in the fast-casual dining sector during that period.