Private equity mogul Bill Chisholm has agreed to purchase the Boston Celtics in a record-breaking $6.1 billion deal, the highest price ever for a U.S. professional sports team. If approved by the NBA’s board of governors this summer, the sale will surpass the $6.05 billion paid for the NFL’s Washington Commanders in 2023.
Chisholm, a Massachusetts native and managing partner at Symphony Technology Group, will lead the new ownership group alongside Boston businessmen Rob Hale and Bruce Beal Jr. Chisholm emphasized his lifelong support for the Celtics and his commitment to the team’s role in the Boston community.
Current owner Wyc Grousbeck, who purchased the team in 2002 for $360 million, will remain as CEO and Governor for the next three seasons at Chisholm’s request. The agreement involves a two-phase sale, with Chisholm initially acquiring at least 51% of the team. The remaining shares will be sold by 2028 at a price up to 20% higher, depending on league revenue growth.
