The Boston Celtics, the winningest team in NBA history, are on the verge of a major ownership change. After securing their second championship as majority owners, the Grousbeck family has announced plans to sell the franchise.
According to Sportico’s Eben Novy-Williams and Scott Soshnick, four contenders remain in the race to buy the 18-time champions. Forbes values the Celtics at approximately $6 billion—an enormous jump from the $360 million paid by Wyc and Irving Grousbeck, Stephen Pagliuca, and Robert Epstein in 2002.
Who’s in the Running?
Stephen Pagliuca – A current minority stakeholder looking to take majority control.
The Friedkin Group – Owners of soccer clubs AS Roma (Italy) and Everton (English Premier League).
Stan Middleton – President and CEO of Freedom Mortgage, as well as a minority owner of MLB’s Philadelphia Phillies.
Bill Chisholm – Co-founder and chief investment officer of Symphony Technology Group.
Current Celtics governor Wyc Grousbeck will remain in his role until the sale is finalized in 2028.
Celtics Continue Dominant Season
Despite the ownership transition, the Celtics remain one of the league’s top teams. With a 47-19 record, they currently hold the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference, trailing the 55-10 Cleveland Cavaliers by 8.5 games.
Boston’s success is fueled by All-Star forwards Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, along with All-Defensive Second Team guards Jrue Holiday and Derrick White. Center Kristaps Porzingis, though frequently sidelined, rounds out the starting lineup.
The bench has also improved since last season. Al Horford, at 38 years old, continues to contribute effectively. Payton Pritchard is making a strong case for Sixth Man of the Year with a breakout scoring season. Sam Hauser has become a reliable perimeter shooter, while backup centers Luke Kornet and Neemias Queta are exceeding expectations.
As the Celtics push toward another deep playoff run, all eyes are on who will take over the franchise’s next chapter.
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