The Boston Celtics are changing hands. Bill Chisholm, the managing director of Symphony Technology Group, is set to become the majority owner after purchasing the franchise for a staggering $6.1 billion. This deal marks the most expensive sale in North American sports history, surpassing the $6.05 billion purchase of the Washington Commanders in 2023.
A New Era for the Celtics
The sale follows Boston Basketball Partners LLC’s announcement last June that they intended to sell their controlling stake. The decision came shortly after the Celtics secured the 2025 NBA Championship, reaffirming their place as the most successful team in NBA history.
Despite the ownership transition, Wyc Grousbeck will remain as CEO and governor through June 2028. This continuity ensures stability for a team with championship aspirations.
Who is Bill Chisholm?
Bill Chisholm, a Massachusetts native, is a lifelong Celtics fan with deep ties to the business world. He graduated from Dartmouth College with an MBA with Distinction and currently sits on multiple boards, including:
- Cadmium
- CAI Software
- Dodge
- eProductivity Software
- Jobrapido
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Chisholm’s Symphony Technology Group (STG) is a private equity firm based in Menlo Park, California, specializing in software and services investments. The firm, founded in 2002, has built a reputation for turning companies into market leaders.
Chisholm has expressed his commitment to Boston, stating he plans to purchase a home in the area in the near future.
Record-Breaking Sale in North American Sports
Chisholm’s $6.1 billion purchase of the Celtics sets a new benchmark for franchise valuations.
Previously, the most expensive NBA sale was Mat Ishbia’s $4 billion acquisition of the Phoenix Suns in 2023. Given Boston’s rich history, 18 championship banners, and dedicated fan base, the premium price tag reflects its stature in the sports world.
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Comparison of Top Sports Franchise Sales:
| Franchise | Sale Price | Year | Buyer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boston Celtics | $6.1B | 2025 | Bill Chisholm |
| Washington Commanders | $6.05B | 2023 | Josh Harris |
| Phoenix Suns | $4B | 2023 | Mat Ishbia |
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Financial Implications: Payroll & Luxury Tax
With the Celtics’ payroll and luxury tax commitments nearing $500 million for the 2025-26 season, questions arise about Chisholm’s willingness to spend.
The new ownership group’s financial strategy will determine whether Boston can maintain its championship core, including Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown.
Celtics fans breathed a sigh of relief when it became clear that John Henry and Fenway Sports Group were not serious contenders in the bidding war. Their reputation for cost-cutting strategies worried many supporters.
Chisholm’s Commitment to Winning
Chisholm has reassured Celtics Nation that he intends to keep the team competitive.
“Growing up on the North Shore and attending college in New England, I have been a die-hard Celtics fan my entire life,” Chisholm said. “I understand how important the Celtics are to the city of Boston – the role the team plays in the community is different than any other city in the country.”
In an interview with ESPN, Chisholm further emphasized:
“The team is in a great place right now. I’m very sensitive to that. Wyc, Brad Stevens, and Joe Mazzulla have done amazing jobs, and my approach is to win and raise banners. That’s in the near term and long term.”
Chisholm’s focus on continuity and championships suggests he will prioritize keeping key players while investing in long-term success.
What’s Next for the Celtics?
As the ownership transition finalizes, key questions remain:
- Will Chisholm keep the Celtics’ payroll among the NBA’s highest?
- How will the front office handle upcoming contract negotiations?
- Will Boston make moves to secure more talent?
With Wyc Grousbeck remaining through 2028 and Brad Stevens leading the basketball operations, the franchise appears poised for continued success under its new ownership.
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