In a landmark deal that has sent shockwaves through the sports world, the Boston Celtics, the most storied franchise in NBA history, have been sold to Bill Chisholm, the owner of Symphony Technology Group, for a staggering $6.1 billion. This transaction, finalized around March 19, 2025, marks the highest price ever paid for a sports team in North America, eclipsing previous records by a significant margin.
Chisholm, a lifelong Celtics fan born in Georgetown, just over 45 kilometers from Boston, has made his mark in the investment sector, and his passion for basketball has now led him to make this historic purchase from the Grousbeck family, who held ownership since 2002. With this acquisition, Chisholm is poised to join the ranks of the wealthiest sports team owners in the league.
The $6.1 billion price tag not only sets a new benchmark for the NBA but also surpasses the previous record held by Mat Ishbia, who bought the majority stake of the Phoenix Suns and the Phoenix Mercury for $4 billion in 2023. Additionally, the previous record for any sports franchise was held by the Washington Commanders, sold for $6.05 billion in 2023 to a group led by Josh Harris.
Forbes estimates that Chisholm's investment group is valued at around $10 billion, primarily in software sector assets. This financial backing positions him well to manage the Celtics and potentially invest in further improvements to the franchise.
As the Celtics enter this new chapter under Chisholm’s ownership, they join a list of franchises that have recently changed hands for record amounts. The top ten sales of sports franchises in the United States now include:
- Boston Celtics: $6.10 billion
- Washington Commanders: $6.05 billion
- Denver Broncos: $4.70 billion
- Phoenix Suns: $4.00 billion
- Milwaukee Bucks: $3.50 billion
- New York Mets: $2.40 billion
- Brooklyn Nets: $2.40 billion
- Carolina Panthers: $2.20 billion
- Houston Rockets: $2.20 billion
- Los Angeles Dodgers: $2.00 billion
Chisholm’s acquisition comes at a time when the valuation of NBA franchises has soared, reflecting the league's growing popularity and financial clout. The Celtics, known for their rich history and numerous championships, are now under the stewardship of a passionate owner who is expected to prioritize both competitive success and fan engagement.
In light of this acquisition, the landscape of NBA ownership is shifting, with Chisholm likely to be included in the upper echelons of team owners. As of 2024, the wealthiest owners in the NBA include:
- Steve Ballmer (Los Angeles Clippers): $121.3 billion
- Miriam Adelson & Patrick Dumont (Dallas Mavericks): $34.6 billion
- Dan Gilbert (Cleveland Cavaliers): $28.1 billion
- Stan Kroenke (Denver Nuggets): $16.9 billion
- Robert Pera (Memphis Grizzlies): $13.6 billion
- Antony Ressler (Atlanta Hawks): $11.6 billion
- Tilman Fertitta (Houston Rockets): $10.2 billion
- Tom Gores (Detroit Pistons): $9.4 billion
- Joseph Tsai (Brooklyn Nets): $9.3 billion
- Micky Arison (Miami Heat): $8.8 billion
The Celtics' sale is not just a financial milestone; it also highlights the increasing trend of substantial investments in sports franchises, with owners like Chisholm looking to capitalize on the lucrative nature of professional sports. The NBA’s growth has been fueled by lucrative broadcasting deals, increased merchandise sales, and a global fanbase that continues to expand.
As the Celtics prepare for the future, the focus will be on how Chisholm plans to enhance the franchise both on and off the court. His investment could lead to significant upgrades in facilities, player acquisitions, and overall team performance, aiming to restore the Celtics to their former glory.
Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this new ownership will impact the team’s strategy and competitiveness in the coming seasons. With Chisholm at the helm, the Celtics could be poised for a new era marked by ambition and success.
In summary, the Boston Celtics’ record-setting sale to Bill Chisholm represents a pivotal moment in sports history, underscoring the explosive growth of franchise valuations and the enduring allure of the NBA. As the team transitions into this new chapter, all eyes will be on Chisholm and his vision for one of basketball's most iconic franchises.
