A lawsuit filed in Hawaii Circuit Court has stirred up drama in luxury real estate: a developer and real estate broker are suing Shohei Ohtani and his agent, Nez Balelo, alleging that they interfered with a $240 million housing project on Hawaii’s Hapuna Coast.

What the Lawsuit Claims

• The plaintiffs, Kevin J. Hayes Sr. (developer) and Tomoko Matsumoto (broker), say they were ousted from the project after years of planning—despite originally bringing Ohtani on board for promotional value.

• They accuse Ohtani and Balelo of tortious interference and unjust enrichment—arguing that the pair used celebrity influence to pressure Kingsbarn Realty Capital into cutting them out.

• The plaintiffs claim they stand to lose millions in profits, commissions, and fees tied to the project.

Ohtani & Balelo’s Defense

• Ohtani’s attorneys argue that Hayes and Matsumoto used Ohtani’s name, image, and likeness (NIL) in marketing without authorization.

• They are seeking dismissal, saying that objections to misuse of Ohtani’s likeness are protected and do not amount to wrongdoing.

• The defense paints the lawsuit as a distraction from the plaintiffs’ own mismanagement.

Why This Case Matters

1. Celebrity influence in real estate – High-profile endorsements can be powerful, but they can also shift leverage in negotiations.

2. Contract disputes – Clear agreements are critical when multiple players are involved in luxury developments.

3. Branding rights – The case highlights how much value image and marketing bring to multi-million-dollar projects.

4. High-stakes investment – The Hapuna project, The Vista at Mauna Kea Resort, involves 14 luxury homes averaging $17.3M each.

What This Means for You

While most real estate deals won’t involve Major League Baseball stars, this case is a reminder that clarity, contracts, and representation matter—whether you’re buying a first home, selling property, or investing in Hawaii real estate. As a team, we help our clients navigate negotiations, protect their interests, and spot potential risks early—so your purchase or sale stays focused on opportunity, not disputes. If you’re considering buying or selling in Hawaii, we’re here to guide you through every step with transparency and expertise.

Source: AP News