The Boston Celtics, one of the NBA’s most illustrious teams, have been sold for a record-breaking $6.1 billion to an investment group headed by William “Bill” Chisholm in a historic deal.
This transaction surpasses the previous record of $6.05 billion paid for the NFL’s Washington Commanders in 2023, setting a new standard for North American sports teams.
About William Chisholm
William Chisholm is a managing partner and co-founder of Symphony Technology Group (STG), a private equity business that focuses on investments in technology and enterprise software. Chisholm, a Georgetown, Massachusetts native, has a “encyclopedic knowledge” of the Celtics and has been a longtime fan.
He received an MBA from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School and a bachelor’s degree from Dartmouth College, where he played soccer.
Details of the Acquisition
On March 20, 2025, the deal to buy the Celtics was formally disclosed. As is standard in ownership transfers, the deal is awaiting NBA Board of Governors approval. Prominent individuals including businessman Bruce Beal Jr. and current Celtics stakeholder Rob Hale are part of Chisholm’s investment group.
Through the 2027–2028 NBA season, current owner Wyc Grousbeck, who paid $360 million to purchase the franchise in 2002, will remain in his positions as governor and CEO, managing team operations.
Implications for the Celtics
According to Forbes’ 2024 estimation, the Celtics, who have won 18 NBA titles, are currently worth about $6 billion. The club has been playing well lately, and this season they are in second place in the Eastern Conference thanks to young players like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown.
It is anticipated that the money raised from this deal will increase the franchise’s ability to compete on and off the court. It is expected that Chisholm’s longstanding love for the Celtics and his broad financial experience will propel the team to long-term success.
Broader Impact on Sports Franchise Valuations
The record-breaking sale highlights how professional sports teams are increasingly valued due to their cultural relevance and potential for financial gain. The NBA’s recent 11-year, $76 billion television agreement emphasizes both the league’s strong financial standing and the rising worth of its clubs.
Celtics supporters and the larger NBA community eagerly await final confirmation of the sale, believing that this new phase will bring the team even greater success.