The Boston Celtics, reigning NBA champions and one of the league’s most storied franchises, have agreed to a historic $6.1 billion sale to a group led by Symphony Technology Group co-founder William Chisholm, the team confirmed Thursday.
Pending NBA Board of Governors approval, the deal would mark the most expensive team acquisition in North American sports history, edging out the $6.05 billion purchase of the NFL’s Washington Commanders in 2023.
A Boston Native Takes the Helm
“Bill is a terrific person and a true Celtics fan, born and raised here in the Boston area,” said current majority owner Wyc Grousbeck.
Chisholm, a lifelong Celtics devotee, emphasized the cultural significance of the team in Boston. “I understand how important the Celtics are to the city – the role the team plays in the community is different than any other city in the country,” he said.
Chisholm will be joined by Boston business figures and philanthropists Rob Hale (a current Celtics owner) and Bruce A. Beal Jr., among others.
Grousbeck to Stay Through 2028
Despite the ownership change, Grousbeck will continue as CEO and team Governor through the 2027–2028 NBA season, maintaining operational oversight as the team transitions into its next chapter.
The sale follows the Celtics’ record-breaking 18th NBA championship win in 2024, surpassing the Los Angeles Lakers in total titles. The team announced its intent to sell last July, setting the stage for this landmark transaction.