Boston Celtics Sale Faces NBA Approval Hurdles

The Boston Celtics are in the midst of a historic $6.1 billion sale to Bill Chisholm, but complications have arisen due to NBA regulations regarding private equity ownership. Reports indicate that Chisholm has committed less financial backing to the deal than Sixth Street Partners, which violates NBA rules that limit the equity fund's stake in franchises. To navigate this hurdle, Chisholm may need to recruit additional investors or request a league waiver before the NBA Board of Governors votes on the sale in June. If the sale does not proceed, the Grousbeck family could consider offers from other bidders, including current minority owner Steve Pagliuca, who has publicly expressed interest. The outcome of this sale will not only affect the Celtics but may also set a precedent for future NBA transactions involving private equity. The second phase of the sale, which could increase the total valuation to around $7.3 billion by 2028, adds further complexity to the current negotiations.