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The Boston Celtics have solidified their status as a historical powerhouse in the NBA by not only winning 18 championships but also breaking new ground in the realm of sports sales. The franchise is now set to be sold for a staggering $6.1 billion, making it the most expensive team sale in sports history.
As reported on Thursday by various sources, Bill Chisholm, who serves as the managing partner of Symphony Technology Group, is at the forefront of this record-setting transaction. However, the sale must still receive approval from the NBA Board of Governors before finalization.
For context, the previous record for a sports franchise sale was held by the NFL’s Washington Commanders, which fetched $6.05 billion in 2023. In the NBA’s landscape, the previous record was the Phoenix Suns’ sale at $4 billion, agreed upon at the end of 2022 and completed early in 2023.
Chisholm, a Massachusetts native and alumnus of Dartmouth College, has expressed his deep understanding of the Celtics’ rich history and significance to the Boston community. “Having grown up on the North Shore and attended college in New England, I’ve been a passionate Celtics supporter throughout my life,” he stated in an announcement. “The Celtics mean a great deal to Boston, and I fully recognize the responsibility that comes with leading this organization for the people here. I’m ready to meet that challenge.”
With an estimated net worth of approximately $10 billion, Chisholm is well-positioned for this venture. Sources have noted his “encyclopedic knowledge” of the Celtics, as quoted by the Boston Globe, underscoring his preparedness for the role.
As highlighted by Fast Company, should the sale be completed, the Grousbeck family, who currently hold majority ownership of the team, stands to realize about a 1,700% return on their initial investment.
This monumental change in ownership marks a new chapter for the Celtics, a team that not only boasts a remarkable legacy but also continues to play a vital role in the Boston sports community.
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