Introducing Roman King: A Storyteller at Heart
Roman King’s journey from the quiet corners of rural West Virginia to the bustling creative hubs of Major League Soccer (MLS) and the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) is a testament to the power of storytelling and identity. His path wasn’t paved with athletic prowess; instead, it was his passion for the narratives that sports and media create that carved his space in these influential roles.
Growing up, King found solace in the world of sports and entertainment. “Sports were always a point of interest to me,” King shares, reflecting on his childhood spent watching NFL Sundays with his father. His experience was enriched by the dynamic stories unfolding on MTV, WWF wrestling, and the cinematic magic of “Space Jam.” These influences nurtured his imagination and provided an escape from the realities of being a Black queer kid in West Virginia.
Finding His Path: A Creative Director’s Rise
King’s dream of forging a career where art met sports seemed distant at first. “I didn’t even know this career was a pathway for myself,” he admits. After graduating with a degree in visual arts, King’s career began to take shape. His role as art director for Philadelphia Magazine led him to prestigious positions at Condé Nast and Rolling Stone in New York City. But it was the WNBA that provided the perfect canvas for his creativity.
Joining the WNBA in 2019 as the creative director, King was captivated by the inclusive and diverse environment. “Seeing all-female leadership and being interviewed by diverse people was inspiring,” King recalls. The league’s commitment to representation resonated with him, especially since many players identified as part of the LGBTQ community. “My identity was complementary to where the WNBA was at, and where they needed to take it.”
His tenure at the WNBA was marked by significant contributions, including a brand refresh and the introduction of a new logo for the league’s 25th anniversary. King was instrumental in celebrating the league’s progressive milestones, like the acknowledgment of Pride Month and organizing Pride Nights. “These were not just logo swaps; they were cultural statements embraced by leadership,” King emphasizes.
Extending the Vision: MLS and a New Chapter
With the foundation laid at the WNBA, King transitioned to MLS, where he continues to champion diversity and creativity in sports. Although there are no openly LGBTQ players in U.S. men’s professional soccer, King is inspired by the vibrant supporter groups and their colorful expressions of solidarity and representation. “Ensuring these communities aren’t lost in the shuffle is crucial,” he notes.
King’s recent project, "All For The Cup," features actress and producer Issa Rae, co-owner of San Diego FC. “I’m thrilled to work with Issa,” King says. “It’s about making soccer relatable and entertaining beyond the pitch.” This initiative aligns with MLS’s broader cultural engagement, marked by collaborations like the "Game On" campaign featuring bi rapper Doechii.
As the United States gears up for an upcoming FIFA World Cup, King feels a profound responsibility to promote inclusivity in soccer culture. His personal journey imbues his work with a deep sense of purpose, resonating with youth who might follow in his footsteps. “Visibility creates pathways. Sports are changing, and there’s space for everyone now,” King asserts.
Inspiring the Next Generation
For aspiring creatives and athletes within the LGBTQ community, King’s story is a beacon of possibility. His inclusion in the "Rising 50" list of influential LGBTQ figures in sports underscores the importance of role models and representation. “Year over year, sports have become more accepting. Now is the time to see if you can find a way in, because there’s a place for you.”
Roman King's journey is not just a personal triumph but a cultural shift, inviting others to envision themselves in spaces they might never have considered before. He continues to break barriers and build bridges, shaping the future of sports culture with creativity and authenticity.
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