In a landmark move, the NBA unanimously approved the sale of the Boston Celtics today to a group led by private equity executive William “Bill” Chisholm, valuing the storied franchise at $6.1 billion the highest sum ever paid for an American professional sports team .
A Record-Breaking Valuation
- The $6.1 billion tag surpasses the previous record of $6.05 billion, paid for the NFL’s Washington Commanders in 2023 .
- The Celtics’ price also eclipses the $4 billion purchase of the Phoenix Suns in 2023 .
- Under the deal, Chisholm takes immediate control of 51% of the team, with the option to acquire full control by 2028 at up to $7.3 billion, based on franchise revenue formulas .
The New Ownership Group
- William Chisholm: A lifelong Massachusetts native and Dartmouth/Wharton graduate, Chisholm co-founded Symphony Technology Group and will serve as the controlling owner and lead governor .
- Aditya Mittal (ArcelorMittal CEO): Contributed $1 billion, becoming an alternate governor .
- Bruce Beal Jr. and Robert Hale Jr.: Both bring substantial real estate and telecommunications expertise, joining as minority partners .
- Wyc Grousbeck: The current franchise leader since 2002, he will retain his CEO and governor roles until at least 2028 .
The broader group includes longstanding minority partners like Steve Pagliuca, Paul Edgerley, and John Connaughton, all invited to retain stakes .
Approval Process & Roadblocks
- The sale was first agreed to in May 2025, valued at $6.1 billion, marking it as the most expensive franchise acquisition in North American history .
- Earlier concerns emerged around private equity rules, notably that Chisholm’s group had to dilute Sixth Street’s stake to comply with NBA regulations — which limit private equity to under 20% or less than the lead owner’s share .
- Chisholm reportedly secured oversubscribed funding, including backing from Mittal, enabling a clean deal that met league criteria .
- Final NBA Board of Governors approval came today, clearing the transfer of the majority stake .
What’s Next for the Celtics?
- Leadership Transition
Chisholm will assume operational leadership, though Grousbeck remains head of basketball operations through 2028 . - Roster & Payroll Strategy
With the team deeply embedded in luxury tax territory, new ownership may strategically adjust player contracts and roster composition to manage financial obligations . - Growth and Expansion
Analysts see this sale as a catalyst for broader NBA growth — potentially accelerating expansion plans into cities like Seattle and Las Vegas . - Arena & Media Moves
The new group’s real estate expertise hints at future plans — whether negotiations around TD Garden, arena-linked developments, or media partnerships similar to other NBA franchises.
Market Impacts & Expert Insights
- Forbes notes that the NBA’s $76 billion TV deal and booming sponsorships make now a ripe time for elite franchises to fetch huge prices .
- Front Office Sports highlights the broader trend: premium brands appreciating in value, even without owning arenas or networks themselves .
- Industry insiders, including those involved in other high-profile deals, suggest that franchise values aren’t peaking yet, particularly for globally recognized brands like Boston .
Final Word
The NBA’s green light for this sale signals not just the end of an era under the Grousbeck leadership, but the dawn of a new, financially potent chapter for the Celtics. With Chisholm at the helm and record-breaking capital behind him, the Celtics are positioned to remain competitive on and off the court — ushering in an ownership model built to navigate luxury tax woes, arena strategy, and media innovation. Today marks a historic moment in sports business, with ripple effects likely to influence future franchise valuations and NBA expansion efforts.
