Today, UPSHOT announced that Charlotte-based architect, builder, entrepreneur and civic leader Lucia Zapata-Griffith has joined The Charlotte Crown ownership group through the Empower Her Fund. Zapata-Griffith brings more than three decades of experience helping shape the Charlotte community through business and civic leadership and is also a minority owner of Carolina Ascent FC.
“I believe in the importance of participation of women at the highest levels of civic and business life and sports can be a meaningful way to support both,” said Zapata-Griffith. “It is exciting to be part of offering an opportunity for young women to play sports at the professional level, not only for the excitement of the game we all share but for their own development. We frequently see former young athletes become strong leaders and model citizens and that makes this effort a lot more meaningful”.
Zapata-Griffith has worked as an architect and builder in Charlotte since 1990, leading commercial and residential projects throughout the region, including projects at Charlotte Douglas International Airport. She currently serves on the Charlotte Executive Leadership Council, Board of Commissioners of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Hospital Authority, Board of Trustees of Central Piedmont Community College and Metropolitan Public Transit Authority Board of Trustees. Zapata-Griffith is also co-founder of South End restaurant La Lima Sangucheria.
The Charlotte Crown captured the inaugural UPSHOT Championship in August. As the league prepares for its second season in 2027, the Empower Her Fund’s investment reflects a shared commitment to growing women’s professional sports in Charlotte and increasing women’s participation in sports ownership.
ABOUT THE UPSHOT LEAGUE
The UPSHOT League is a premier women’s professional basketball league built on elite competition, player opportunity, and community connection. With a foundation rooted in high-level talent and global experience, the league aims to redefine the professional landscape while expanding opportunities for women’s basketball in the United States. The league currently consists of six teams, including: Jacksonville Waves, Charlotte Crown, Greensboro Groove, Savannah Steel, Baltimore Starlings, and Nashville Vibe. For more information, including live game schedules, tickets, and real-time statistics, visit the UPSHOT league website at upshotleague.com or follow @upshotleague on major social platforms.