Bill Chisholm’s Celtics Purchase Secures Financing, Awaits NBA Approval

Bill Chisholm has secured full financing and finalized the ownership group to acquire a 51 percent controlling stake in the Boston Celtics for $6.1 billion, with the remaining shares expected to transfer in 2028 at a projected valuation of $7.3 billion. The purchase requires approval from the NBA's Board of Governors, anticipated in June or July, which is viewed as a likely formality. Current Celtics governor Wyc Grousbeck will remain in his role through the 2027-28 NBA season, facilitating a collaborative transition highlighted by their courtside appearances together at recent games. Private equity firm Sixth Street, which also has a stake in the San Antonio Spurs, will hold a significant but silent minority interest due to NBA ownership restrictions. Shareholders not joining the new group must sell at least half their interest by May 28, with options to defer or sell fully at closing. This sale positions the Celtics among the NBA's highest-valued franchises and sets the stage for a new leadership era in Boston, bolstered by the NBA's recent $76 billion media rights deal.