Kroenke takes over ownership of NFL's Rams

ST. LOUIS, Aug. 25 (UPI) -- E. Stanley Kroenke, currently owner of the NBA's Denver Nuggets and NHL's Colorado Avalanche, has become majority owner of the NFL's St. Louis Rams.

Kroenke bought the remaining 60 percent of the franchise from the Rosenbloom family, which had owned the Rams for nearly 40 years, and the sale was approved Wednesday at an NFL owners' meeting in Atlanta.

"Stan has been a familiar and respected figure in the National Football League for more than 15 years," said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. "He is a proven businessman and has experienced success in all of his sports franchises, as well as serving as a responsible community leader. We look forward to him continuing to uphold the goals and values of the NFL as he becomes the majority owner of the St. Louis Rams."

Kroenke, 63, was considered a key player in efforts to move the Rams from Los Angeles to St. Louis. He had been a minority owner of the team since that move in 1995.

He bought the Nuggets and Avalanche in 2000 but since NFL rules forbid cross-ownership of major sports teams, he is expected to transfer owner of those franchises to his son Josh.