Historic Sale of Boston Celtics Sets New Record in American Sports

The Boston Celtics will change hands for $6.1 billion, setting a new record for American sports franchise sales. William “Bill” Chisholm, managing partner of Symphony Technology Group, leads the purchasing consortium announced on March 20, 2025.

The historic deal narrowly surpasses the previous record of $6.05 billion paid for the Washington Commanders in 2023. Chisholm, a Massachusetts native and lifelong Celtics fan, graduated from Dartmouth College and co-founded his private equity firm focused on technology investments.

The transaction will unfold in two phases. Chisholm’s group will acquire 51% ownership initially, with the remaining 49% transferring in 2028. Current owner Wyc Grousbeck will maintain his position as team governor through the 2027-28 season.

Grousbeck’s family purchased the franchise for just $360 million in 2002, representing a staggering 1,600% return on investment. The decision to sell came shortly after the Celtics secured their record-breaking 18th NBA championship in 2024.

The investment group alongside Chisholm includes current co-owner Rob Hale, Related Companies president Bruce Beal Jr., and global investment firm Sixth Street. The NBA Board of Governors must still approve the deal before completion.

Forbes currently ranks the Celtics as the fourth most valuable NBA franchise at approximately $6 billion. They trail only the Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks, and Los Angeles Lakers.

Celtics Face Soaring Costs Amid Record Franchise Valuations

The team maintains a strong competitive position with stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown leading their roster. However, operating costs have skyrocketed recently. The Celtics paid over $110 million in luxury taxes during the past two seasons.

Once Tatum receives his anticipated contract extension, the team will have approximately $600 million committed to just two players. The franchise expects to pay nearly $50 million in luxury tax for the current season alone.

The deal highlights the explosive growth in sports franchise valuations. Recent NBA sales include the Phoenix Suns ($4 billion), Milwaukee Bucks ($3.5 billion), and Dallas Mavericks ($3.5 billion), all significantly lower than this record-breaking transaction.