$4 Billion Franchise Deal: Tom Dundon to Acquire Portland Trail Blazers

Tom Dundon Reaches Tentative Deal to Acquire Portland Trail Blazers

PORTLAND, Ore. — August 13, 2025 — Tom Dundon, the prominent owner of the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes, has successfully negotiated a tentative agreement to purchase the Portland Trail Blazers, a deal that is being reported at an impressive valuation of approximately $4 billion. This significant agreement is further enhanced by a strategic partnership with the investment firm Collective Global, which is spearheaded by the innovative entrepreneur Sheel Tyle, known for his keen insights into sports investments and business ventures.

This transaction represents a pivotal shift in the ownership landscape of the Trail Blazers, concluding a long-standing era characterized by the stewardship of the estate of the late Paul Allen. Allen, a co-founder of Microsoft, was an influential figure in the sports world, having owned the franchise since 1988 until his passing in 2018. His legacy has been deeply intertwined with the team, and Dundon’s acquisition is poised to bring about a new chapter in the franchise’s history. Importantly, Dundon’s group has made a firm commitment to retaining the team in Portland, a move that has been met with relief and enthusiasm from the city’s dedicated and passionate fan base, which has supported the Blazers through thick and thin.

However, the deal is not yet finalized; it requires the approval of the NBA’s Board of Governors before it can officially come to fruition. This review process is expected to take place over the coming months, with a resolution anticipated by the fall. The scrutiny of the Board of Governors is a standard procedure in the league, ensuring that all ownership transitions align with the NBA's standards and regulations.

Dundon, who hails from Dallas, Texas, has garnered a reputation in the sports industry for his analytics-driven approach and a fan-first philosophy during his tenure with the Hurricanes. His leadership style has emphasized data-driven decision-making, enhancing team performance and fan engagement. Observers are keen to see how Dundon will apply this successful methodology to the NBA, potentially revolutionizing the Blazers’ operations and overall team strategy. His ownership is also expected to bring about significant upgrades to the team’s infrastructure, including improvements in training facilities, technology integration, and the enhancement of digital operations to better connect with fans and broaden the team’s reach.

The $4 billion valuation of the Blazers reflects the current booming market for NBA franchises, which has seen a surge in value due to increased media rights deals, sponsorship opportunities, and fan engagement strategies. This substantial figure not only underscores the financial health of the franchise but also sets a potentially influential precedent for future sales throughout the league. The news of Dundon’s acquisition has been met with positivity from local officials; Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler expressed his support, calling it “a positive step for the city and for Blazers fans,” highlighting the optimism surrounding the future of the franchise under new ownership.