Boston Celtics Sold to Bill Chisholm in Landmark $6.1 Billion Deal

On Wednesday, the NBA gave the green light to the Celtics' sale to a consortium led by Bill Chisholm, a transaction placing the basketball team’s worth at an unprecedented $6.1 billion, marking the highest sale in American sports history.

The league has announced that the deal is on the brink of finalization. Once complete, Chisholm will obtain at least 51% ownership of the Celtics and is expected to gain full control by 2028, with the total valuation potentially reaching $7.3 billion by then.

While the $6.1 billion price tag sets a record in American sports, it’s overshadowed by Los Angeles Dodgers' owner Mark Walter’s prospective purchase of a significant stake in the Lakers, valuing that franchise at $10 billion. Jeanie Buss is anticipated to maintain at least a 15% ownership.

Historically, the highest U.S. sports franchise valuation was the $6.05 billion for the NFL’s Washington Commanders in 2023. Before this Celtics deal, Mat Ishbia's $4 billion acquisition of the Phoenix Suns was the NBA's peak.

Bill Chisholm, who hails from Massachusetts and holds degrees from Dartmouth and Wharton School of Business, is at the helm of the California-based Symphony Technology Group. His group of investors includes Rob Hale, currently an investor in the Celtics, and Bruce Beal Jr., both significant figures in Boston’s business community.

Previously, Wyc Grousbeck acquired the Celtics in 2002 for $360 million, leading them to NBA championships in 2008 and 2024, with the franchise boasting a record 18 titles.

Chisholm managed to top offers from at least two competing parties, one of which was guided by former Celtics minority owner Steve Pagliuca. Pagliuca revealed plans to purchase the WNBA’s Connecticut Sun for $325 million, intending to relocate them to Boston, although the WNBA has not approved the move.