The Rook: Structure & Shield
Focus: LLCs, C-Corps, Holding Companies
By Jaron Baston, Commissioner, LAW Fund
The Rook Doesn’t Move Backward. Only Forward.
In chess, the rook provides cover. On the wealth board, the rook holds the assets, directs ownership, and shields liability.
You’ve installed your Trust (King). You’ve funded your PLI (Queen). Now you need an entity to hold, manage, and protect everything you build.
Without structure, opportunity leaks. Without legal coverage, a lawsuit becomes liquidation.
This play sheet introduces the system behind athletes-turned-owners.
Why This Play Sheet Matters
Most athletes stay in their personal name. Every deal, every risk, every asset points back to their Social Security Number.
The rook changes that.
A properly structured LLC or Corporation:
✅ Separates personal from business liability
✅ Protects personal assets from lawsuits
✅ Channels revenue through a controlled system
✅ Enables tax flexibility and deduction strategies
✅ Allows ownership of IP, trademarks, and licensing rights
The rook is the firewall between your personal wealth and professional risk.
Real-World Play: The LLC Behind the Brand
LeBron James? Has LRMR Ventures.
Kevin Durant? Thirty Five Ventures.
Steph Curry? SC30, Inc.
They don’t sign deals as individuals. Their entities own their brands.
When you see endorsements, product lines, or media deals, understand: the contract isn’t with the person. It’s with the entity.
That’s how you stay protected while scaling.
Strategic Breakdown
Here’s how to set up your rook:
- Form an LLC (or C-Corp) under your trust
– The Trust owns the LLC; the LLC owns the income - Register the entity in a favorable state (Wyoming, Delaware, Nevada) for privacy/protection benefits.
- Assign contracts to the entity
– NIL, endorsements, merchandise, royalties - Route income through the entity, not your personal name
- Use the entity to own intellectual property
- Layer professional services inside the entity
– Management fees, tax deductions, family employment
B.K.O.S. Chessboard Snapshot
| Piece | System Role | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| King | Trust | Protected ownership |
| Queen | PLI | Private liquidity |
| Rook | LLC / C-Corp | Legal structure + shield |
| Bishop | CPA / Advisors | Perspective + strategy |
| Knight | Brand | Quick moves + exposure |
| Pawn | Public Image | Sacrificial when unguarded |
The rook moves forward — protecting every lane on its way.
Final Keys
Without structure, your assets stay exposed.
Without legal cover, your legacy leaks.
The rook ensures everything moves inside a protected lane.
Legal Disclaimer
This play sheet is for educational purposes only. LAW Fund is not a law firm or licensed tax/legal advisor. Consult your professional counsel.
📥 Download Play Sheet 003: The Rook
Jaron Baston
