Rick Fox, Pintard Meet at NRG restaurant

NBA champion and actor Rick Fox met today with Free National Movement (FNM) leader Michael Pintard at the NRG health food restaurant, fueling fresh speculation about Fox’s potential entry into frontline politics ahead of the next general election.

The meeting comes days after Fox publicly expressed interest in running in the newly created St. James constituency in western New

Providence. At the time, the Bahamian-born athlete said he had not decided whether he would seek office under a party banner or as an independent candidate, leaving open a range of political possibilities.

Pintard has repeatedly said he would welcome Fox as an FNM candidate.

The St. James constituency has quickly become one of the most closely watched battlegrounds in the run-up to the election. Its creation has prompted internal jockeying within the opposition, particularly as FNM Deputy Leader Shanendon Cartwright has indicated his own interest in contesting the seat, potentially moving from St. Barnabas.

Political observers say Fox’s possible candidacy could complicate those plans.

If Fox enters the race—especially under the FNM banner—it changes the calculus entirely. His name recognition and international profile would make him an immediate focal point in St. James and beyond.

The broader context is a growing perception that the opposition is seeking greater star power among its slate of candidates. Thus far, critics have argued that the FNM lineup lacks the energy and public excitement needed to seriously challenge the Davis-led Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), which remains well-organized and electorally formidable.

Some within the FNM have privately expressed concern that Pintard has yet to fully energize the party’s base since assuming the leadership. Analysts warn that failure to broaden the party’s appeal—particularly among younger voters and undecided constituents—could pave the way for a PLP re-election.

Against that backdrop, Fox’s flirtation with politics has attracted outsized attention. A former Los Angeles Lakers forward and successful actor and entrepreneur, Fox has spoken in recent years about issues of national development, youth empowerment and civic responsibility, themes that resonate with many voters.

Whether today’s meeting marks a first step toward Fox’s formal entry into politics remains unclear.