When you think of iconic sports franchises, the Boston Celtics are as legendary as they come. With a record 18 NBA Championships and a legacy that stretches back to the days of Bill Russell, they are more than just a team; they’re a religion in Boston. And now, they can add another record to their trophy room — the highest sale price ever for a North American sports franchise.
On March 20, 2025, American businessman and lifelong Celtics fan William Chisholm led a group that agreed to purchase the storied franchise for an eye-watering $6.1bn (£4.7bn). To put that in perspective, that’s more money than the GDP of some small countries. This deal surpasses the previous record of $6bn set by the Washington Commanders in 2023 and dwarfs the $4bn sale of the Phoenix Suns back in 2022. Clearly, the market for sports teams is hotter than Jaylen Brown on a fast break.
Chisholm, co-founder and managing partner of the California-based private equity firm Symphony Technology Group, has Celtics green running through his veins. Hailing from the Boston area, he has been a self-proclaimed die-hard fan for his entire life. Now, instead of just cheering from the stands, he gets to call the shots. Not bad for a guy who probably had a Celtics poster on his childhood bedroom wall.
“Growing up on the North Shore and attending college in New England, I have been a die-hard Celtics fan my entire life,” Chisholm said. “I understand how important the Celtics are to the city of Boston — the role the team plays in the community is different than any other city in the country. I also understand that there is a responsibility as a leader of the organization to the people of Boston, and I am up for this challenge.”
Talk about living the dream. But with great power comes great responsibility — and a lot of expectations. Boston fans are not exactly known for their patience. If you thought Santa got booed in Philadelphia, try showing up at the TD Garden after a two-game losing streak.
The Celtics’ previous owners, the Grousbeck family and partner Steve Pagliuca, bought the team for a mere $360m (£277m) in 2002. In just over two decades, that investment has ballooned to $6.1bn. That’s not just a slam dunk; that’s a full-court alley-oop.
Wyc Grousbeck isn’t walking away just yet, though. He will remain as chief executive and governor until the end of the 2027-28 season before handing the reins to Chisholm. It’s a transition period that should allow the Celtics to keep their eyes on banner number 19 while ensuring stability in leadership.
In a world where sports franchises are now worth more than ever, it’s clear that owning a team is as much about business as it is about basketball. But for Boston fans, it’s not just about the money — it’s about pride, history, and a never-ending pursuit of excellence.
One thing is for sure: In Boston, it’s not just a team; it’s a way of life. And with this record-breaking sale, the Celtics are proving that greatness doesn’t come cheap.
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