Boston Celtics’ Historic $6.1B Sale Sets New Record in U.S. Sports Franchise Deals
The Boston Celtics have officially changed ownership in a record-breaking $6.1 billion sale, further underscoring the skyrocketing valuations of U.S. sports franchises, particularly in the NBA.
As reported by the Boston Globe on Thursday, the Celtics are expected to be acquired by William Chisholm, Managing Director of Symphony Technology Group, in a landmark deal that cements the franchise as one of the most valuable in global sports.
A New Era for the Celtics
The sale, expected to be finalized in the coming weeks, will see Wyc Grousbeck remain as the team’s CEO and Governor until June 2028, ensuring a seamless transition. This move aligns with the original plan set by Grousbeck and Steve Pagliuca, who, as majority owners under the Boston Basketball Partners group, announced their intention to sell the controlling stake last year.
For Celtics fans, there’s reassurance in knowing that Chisholm—a Massachusetts native and lifelong supporter of the team—will take the helm. Currently serving on the boards of several major companies, including Cadmium, CAI Software, Dodge, eProductivity Software, and Jobrapido, Chisholm brings a wealth of business acumen to the franchise.
His acquisition bid is backed by Sixth Street, a global investment firm that plays a key role in financing the deal, further solidifying the Celtics’ financial strength moving forward.
Breaking Records in Sports Valuation
The Celtics’ $6.1 billion sale now stands as the largest sports franchise transaction in North American history, surpassing the Washington Commanders’ $6.05 billion acquisition in 2023. Within the NBA, the previous record was held by the Phoenix Suns, sold to Mat Ishbia for $4 billion.
Despite professional leagues aiming for competitive balance, the Celtics remain the NBA’s most successful franchise, boasting 18 championships—with their latest title coming just last year. Their continued dominance makes the timing of this sale particularly intriguing.
A Trend of Rising Valuations
While some may question the owners’ decision to sell at the peak of success, this deal reflects a broader trend: the soaring valuations of sports franchises.
The Golden State Warriors, for example, were valued at a staggering $7 billion in 2023, prompting a group of minority owners to consider selling their stakes. Meanwhile, the Dallas Cowboys continue to top the charts as the most valuable sports franchise in the U.S.
This surge in valuations is fueled by lucrative media rights deals, booming sponsorship revenue, and expanding global fanbases—all factors that suggest the NBA’s financial momentum is far from slowing down.
With talks of a potential European NBA league gaining traction, the future of the league appears even brighter. For now, all eyes are on William Chisholm as he prepares to usher in a new era of Celtics basketball under historic circumstances.
