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Boston Celtics
Aug 19, 2025 10:17 AM EDT
The Boston Celtics are officially under new leadership today, and it’s not just about a record‑setting price tag. The NBA Board of Governors has unanimously approved the $6.1 billion sale of the franchise to private equity executive and lifelong fan Bill Chisholm.
This massive deal marks a turning point in Celtics history, not only as the most expensive U.S. professional sports franchise transaction ever, but as a passing of the torch from a beloved ownership era into a future full of possibilities.
Chisholm steps in as governor, while Wyc Grousbeck transitions to CEO and alternate governor, a well-thought-out shuffle that speaks volumes about what’s next for the team and its direction.
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Record-Setting Deal and New Leadership
The sale, approved in mid‑August 2025, gives Bill Chisholm a minimum 51 percent ownership stake, with full control expected by 2028 as share purchases continue, potentially pushing the team’s valuation up to $7.3 billion.
Chisholm, a Massachusetts native and managing partner at Symphony Technology Group, anchored a consortium that includes Boston businessmen Rob Hale and Bruce Beal Jr.
His acquisition passes the previous U.S. sports franchise sale record and shows that the Celtics are poised to build upon their legacy under fresh stewardship.
Meanwhile, longtime owner Wyc Grousbeck, who helped lead the Celtics to championships in 2008 and 2024 after purchasing the team in 2002 for just $360 million, will move to the role of CEO and alternate governor.
This change was led by NBA ownership rules that require a minimum 15 percent stake to retain the governor title, which Grousbeck no longer meets.
Jayson Tatum
Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) shoots the ball against the New York Knicks. — Source: © David Butler II-Imagn Images
What This Means for the Celtics’ Future
This leadership shuffle is more than a formality., It’s a redeveloped power structure. With Chisholm as governor, the Celtics will benefit from his private equity background and new perspective, while Grousbeck’s continued presence ensures continuity and institutional knowledge. Together, they form a shared leadership model built for stability and innovation.
The significance extends beyond the boardroom. This marks a new chapter for a franchise known for its storied history. As Chisholm assumes control, fans and analysts will be watching closely: will he uphold the Celtics’ tradition of success, invest in state-of-the-art facilities, or pursue new ventures? And with value trends rising across sports, how will the team’s business strategy evolve under co-leadership?
About the Author
Rodney Knuppel
Trending News Writer, Athlon Sports
Rodney Knuppel is a contributing writer to the Athlon Sports trending and breaking news team.