William Blair Investment Management Reduces Stake in Academy Sports and Outdoors

Institutional investor sells over 113,000 shares of the sporting goods retailer

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

William Blair Investment Management LLC has reduced its position in Academy Sports and Outdoors, Inc. (NASDAQ:ASO) by 7.9% in the third quarter, according to a recent SEC filing. The institutional investor now owns approximately 1.3 million shares of the company's stock, worth around $66 million.

Why it matters

This filing provides insight into the investment decisions of a major institutional investor and could signal a shift in sentiment around Academy Sports and Outdoors. As a leading specialty retailer of sporting goods and outdoor gear, the company's performance is closely watched by the investment community.

The details

According to the 13F filing, William Blair Investment Management sold 113,762 shares of Academy Sports and Outdoors in the third quarter. The firm now owns 1,326,270 shares, or approximately 1.99% of the company's outstanding stock. Academy Sports and Outdoors has seen its share price rise significantly over the past year as the company has reported strong financial results and expanded its retail footprint.

  • The filing covers the third quarter of 2026.

The players

William Blair Investment Management LLC

An institutional investment management firm that has been a major shareholder of Academy Sports and Outdoors.

Academy Sports and Outdoors, Inc.

A leading specialty retailer of sporting goods and outdoor gear, operating over 260 stores across the United States.

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The takeaway

This filing suggests that William Blair Investment Management has reduced its exposure to Academy Sports and Outdoors, potentially signaling a shift in sentiment around the stock. However, the company remains a significant shareholder, and its overall performance and growth strategy will continue to be closely watched by the investment community.