After the Boston Celtics got their 18th NBA championship, the Boston Basketball Partners L.L.C. have decided to sell its entire team shares. This attracted the interest of William Chisholm, who later acquired it for a staggering $6.1 billion.

By far, it's the largest sum ever paid for a North American sporting franchise. It even surpassed the $4 billion acquisition of the Phoenix Suns in 2022.

William Chisholm Heads New Celtics Ownership

Boston Celtics Sold for Record-Breaking $6.1 Billion: William Chisholm Takes Boston Celtics Sold for Record-Breaking $6.1 Billion: William Chisholm Takes
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Chisholm, managing partner and co-founder of California private equity firm Symphony Technology Group, is the new Celtics owner. According to the Boston Herald, Chisholm is a lifelong Celtics fan who grew up on Boston's North Shore. He spoke of his love for the team and dedication to the Boston community.

"Growing up on the North Shore and attending college in New England, I have been a die-hard Celtics fan my entire life," the new Celtics owner 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," he added.

Celtics Ranked Among NBA's Most Valuable Teams

According to BBC, Forbes valued the Celtics as the fourth-most valuable NBA franchise in 2023 at $6 billion. The Golden State Warriors are the most valuable NBA team, valued at $8.8 billion, followed by the New York Knicks and Los Angeles Lakers.

Grousbeck's Legacy and Transition Plan

Wyc Grousbeck and the current ownership group, who bought the Boston Celtics for $360 million in 2002, have presided over a successful period that included the team's record 18th NBA championship last year after defeating the Dallas Mavericks.

Grousbeck will remain as the team's chief executive and governor until the end of the 2027-28 season to facilitate a transition of authority. Subsequently, Chisholm will assume full responsibility for team operations.

Shattering Records in North American Sports

Aside from exceeding the sale of the Phoenix Suns, the $6.1 billion sale of the Celtics even beat the previous record of the Washington Commanders, which was sold for $6 billion.