NBA Approves $6.1 Billion Sale of Celtics to Bill Chisholm Group

BOSTON — The Boston Celtics, a franchise steeped in rich history and tradition, are on the cusp of entering a transformative new chapter in their storied legacy. The NBA Board of Governors has unanimously approved the monumental sale of the team to a consortium led by the accomplished private equity executive Bill Chisholm, with the transaction valued at an astonishing $6.1 billion, as announced by the league.

This landmark deal, which stands as one of the largest transactions in the realm of U.S. sports history, grants Chisholm’s investment group immediate control over at least 51% ownership of the franchise. Moreover, the agreement includes an option for the group to acquire the remaining shares by 2028, a timeline that could see the total valuation of the Celtics soar to an estimated $7.3 billion as the franchise continues to grow in popularity and financial strength.

In a significant transition, the outgoing majority owner, Wyc Grousbeck, who has been at the helm of the franchise since 2002, will retain his position as CEO. He will also continue to serve as the Celtics’ alternate governor until his ownership stake falls below 15% or until the year 2028 arrives. Under Grousbeck's stewardship, the Celtics experienced a renaissance, capturing two NBA championships, including their most recent triumph in 2024, which marked the franchise’s record-tying 18th NBA title. This success has solidified the Celtics’ place as one of the most successful teams in the league's history.

Bill Chisholm, a native of Massachusetts with deep roots in the local community and a lifelong passion for the Celtics, co-founded the Symphony Technology Group. His leadership has attracted a consortium that includes several notable Boston business leaders, all of whom share a vision for the future of the franchise. This collective expertise and commitment to the team promise to usher in new strategies and initiatives aimed at enhancing the Celtics' competitive edge both on and off the court.

The financial magnitude of this $6.1 billion purchase not only sets a new benchmark within the NBA but also eclipses the previous record held by the league. It closely follows the $6.05 billion sale of the Washington Commanders in 2023, making it the second-highest price ever paid for a North American sports franchise. This staggering valuation reflects the Celtics' enduring appeal and the lucrative nature of professional sports ownership in today’s market.

As the deal approaches its expected closure in the coming weeks, it will officially place one of basketball’s most iconic and successful teams into the hands of a new ownership group. This transition represents not just a change in leadership but also an opportunity for innovation and growth, as the Celtics look to build upon their historic legacy and continue their pursuit of excellence in the NBA.