Who is A.J. McCloud?

An excerpt from Crestmont Chronicle reporter Hunter "Hawk" Harris

A.J. McCloud: Visionary Entrepreneur and Architect of Crestmont

By Hunter Harris of the Crestmont Chronicle

A.J. McCloud is a visionary entrepreneur whose passion for sports and imagination for fantastical storytelling have established him as a multi-billionaire and a cultural icon. McCloud's most ambitious and transformative creation is the city of Crestmont, a sports utopia in California, forged in 2016. The city seamlessly blends the electrifying spirit of professional sports with the enchanting allure of fantasy and mysticism, creating a one-of-a-kind destination that celebrates human achievement and creativity.

Early Life and Passion for Sports
Born into a middle-class family, McCloud demonstrated an entrepreneurial spirit from an early age. A self-proclaimed dreamer, he was captivated by the unifying power of sports and the boundless creativity of fantasy worlds. To him, sports were a stage where teamwork, strategy, and individual excellence came together to showcase what humanity could achieve. Simultaneously, he found inspiration in fantasy literature, mythology, and games, which ignited his imagination.

How He Built His Fortune
McCloud’s journey to wealth began in the tech world during the early 1990s. After earning a degree in computer science, he co-founded Mythic Tech, a company specializing in cutting-edge virtual reality (VR) technology. The company revolutionized the gaming and entertainment industries with its immersive experiences, leading to a meteoric rise in value. By 2010, Mythic Tech’s success had made McCloud a multi-billionaire after its acquisition by a major tech conglomerate.

However, McCloud was far from done. With his newfound wealth, he invested in real estate, renewable energy, and entertainment ventures, creating a diversified empire. These strategic investments further multiplied his fortune and gave him the financial freedom to pursue his ultimate dream: building Crestmont.

The Birth of Crestmont
In 2016, McCloud unveiled Crestmont, a city unlike any other. Nestled in the California landscape, Crestmont was meticulously designed to blend themes of fantasy and mysticism with cutting-edge sports facilities. The city’s infrastructure was built to host large-scale sporting events, while its design drew inspiration from mythical architecture, creating a sense of wonder for residents and visitors alike.

Crestmont quickly became a hub for innovation, entertainment, and community, attracting millions of visitors annually. It was a testament to McCloud’s vision: a place where people could come together to celebrate athletic excellence and creative storytelling.

The Teams of Crestmont
McCloud didn’t stop at creating the city—he extended his vision to the sports world by building and reshaping iconic teams:

1. Crestmont Arcane (NBA)
   McCloud established the Arcane as an NBA expansion team. Infused with themes of magic and mystery, the team reflects Crestmont’s fantastical identity. The Arcane’s home arena, “The Sanctum,” combines cutting-edge VR technology with theatrical effects, hoping to create a surreal experience for fans. The Arcane look to make their inaugural 2024 season a slam dunk!

2. Crestmont Valkyries (NHL)
   As part of the NHL’s expansion initiative, McCloud launched the Valkyries: a team inspired by Norse mythology. The Valkyries look to bring a sense of epic battle to the ice, thrilling fans with their fierce competitiveness and dazzling pregame spectacles. Watch these players soar on the ice in their inaugural 2024 season!

3. Crestmont FC Griffons (MLS)
   McCloud entered the world of soccer by purchasing the San Jose Earthquakes. He controversially closed the franchise, reopening it as the Crestmont Griffons. Named after the mythical guardian of treasures, the Griffons symbolize strength and elegance, both on and off the pitch. Crestmont FC make their debut in their inaugural 2024 MLS season!

4. Crestmont Ironclad (MLB)
   McCloud also made waves in Major League Baseball by acquiring the Oakland A’s, which he dissolved to create the Crestmont Ironclad. Rooted in themes of resilience and industrial strength, the Ironclad moniker quickly became a fan favorite, representing Crestmont’s core values of grit and innovation. Watch the Ironclad take the field in its inaugural 2024 season!

5. Crestmont Red Dragons (NFL)
   The Red Dragons, Crestmont’s NFL team, symbolize fierce power and untamed energy. Inspired by mythical fire-breathing dragons, the team boasts a fiery red, black, and steel gray color scheme, and its home field, "The Lair," is a fortress of excitement and spectacle. Beginning in their 2024 season, The Red Dragons will become a force in the league, embodying the passion and determination of Crestmont’s sports culture.

Philosophy and Legacy
McCloud believes that sports are more than games—they are stories of perseverance, teamwork, and triumph. His vision for Crestmont reflects his philosophy: to unite people through shared experiences that inspire both awe and camaraderie. By merging the spectacle of sports with the wonder of fantasy, McCloud has redefined what it means to be an entrepreneur and innovator.

Today, A.J. McCloud’s legacy stands as a testament to the power of creativity, determination, and the ability to turn dreams into reality. From his groundbreaking tech ventures to the magical world of Crestmont, McCloud continues to shape the future of entertainment, sports, and culture.