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ANTHONY KATZ
FOUNDER, PRESIDENT
HYPERICE
WHY: Founded sports recovery technology company that’s been used by some of the top athletes in the world, including the late Kobe Bryant who helped test the product. Other users include Lebron James and Blake Griffin. Designed an air-release valve to compress ice against the body, creating an “ice cast.” Stepped down as CEO in 2014 but is still president and actively involved in the company. Raised $100M+; valued at $850M in 2024.
IN THE NEWS: Shoe collaboration with Nike Inc. hit U.S. stores May 17. Partnered with Nike to create the Hyperboot, which combines heat and air-compression massaging to accelerate warm-ups and recovery. Retails for $899. Also developing a vest using thermoelectric coolers for instant heating and cooling with Nike.
NOTABLE: Former history teacher and basketball coach at Laguna Beach High School who quit his day job to create a portable ice compression device. Graduate of UCLA, where he played basketball. Following graduation, worked as a physical therapist with local National Basketball Association teams. Used NBA contacts to get his products to well-known athletes. Past nominee of the Business Journal’s Innovator of the Year Award.
IN HIS WORDS: “Hyperice was started from my personal experiences and curiosity of looking to optimize my body through recovery to keep me doing the things I love for as long as possible. From there, I saw athletes using makeshift recovery tools and knew there had to be a better way. Today, seeing our technology transform recovery not just for elite athletes but for millions of everyday people around the world affirms that vision and the mission of the brand.”
