This Man Just Spent $6.1 Billion on the Celtics – Here’s Why It’s Historic!
The Boston Celtics, current NBA champions and one of the most storied franchises in sports history, are entering a new chapter.
On Thursday, the Celtics’ ownership group agreed to sell the team to William Chisholm, managing director and co-founder of Symphony Technology Group, for a record-breaking $6.1 billion.
The sale is the highest sum paid for a North American sports team in history, surpassing the $6.05 billion Josh Harris paid for the NFL’s Washington Commanders.
BREAKING: Bill Chisholm, managing partner at Symphony Technology Group, has agreed to purchase the Boston Celtics from the Grousbeck family for a valuation for $6.1 billion, sources tell ESPN. This now is the largest sale for a sports franchise in North America. pic.twitter.com/iPphqSQswe
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) March 20, 2025
A Lifelong Fan Takes the Helm
William Chisholm, a lifelong Celtics fan and Georgetown native, grew up on the North Shore and attended Dartmouth College. His deep-rooted connection to the team and the city of Boston made him a natural fit to take the reins of the franchise.
In a statement announcing the agreement, Chisholm expressed his passion for the Celtics and his commitment to upholding their legacy:
“Growing up in New England, I’ve been a die-hard Celtics fan my entire life. I understand how important this team is to the city of Boston and the unique role it plays in the community. I also recognize the responsibility that comes with leading this organization, and I’m ready for the challenge.”
A Record-Breaking Sale
The Grousbeck family, who led the ownership group that purchased the team for $360 million in 2002, announced their decision to sell the team last June for estate and family-planning purposes. Wyc Grousbeck, the current governor and co-owner, will remain in his role through the 2027-28 season to ensure a smooth transition.
Chisholm’s ownership group includes a mix of Boston business leaders and global investors, such as current Celtics co-owner Robert Hale, Bruce Beal Jr. of Related Companies, and the global investment firm Sixth Street.
In his statement, Chisholm emphasized his respect for the Grousbeck family’s contributions over the past two decades and his commitment to building on their success.
“My partners and I have immense respect for Wyc and the Grousbeck family,” he said. “We look forward to learning from them and working with Brad Stevens, Joe Mazzulla, and the entire organization to bring more championships to Boston.”
