Celtics: Ownership Change as Investor Group Acquires Majority Stake
Deal News | Aug 20, 2025 | Goodwin
Goodwin served as the special tax counsel for the Boston Celtics and the Grousbeck family in the sale of the majority control position to an investor group led by William Chisholm. The transaction, concluded in March, valued the franchise at over $6.1 billion, marking a new record price for an American professional sports team. Despite the change in ownership, Wyc Grousbeck will maintain his role as Co-Owner and CEO, continuing to oversee daily operations alongside Chisholm and the current basketball and business management teams. Established in 1946, the Boston Celtics are a prestigious franchise with a celebrated history in professional basketball, boasting 18 NBA Championships and more than 40 Hall of Famers. The franchise remains committed to fostering a culture of winning and community impact.
Sectors
- Sports
- Legal Services
- Private Equity
Geography
- United States – The Boston Celtics are an American professional basketball team, and the transaction sets a record for sports transactions in the U.S.
Industry
- Sports – The article revolves around the acquisition of a major professional sports team, the Boston Celtics, making it relevant to the Sports Industry.
- Legal Services – The involvement of the Goodwin law firm as special tax counsel in the sale process highlights the role of the Legal Services industry.
- Private Equity – The investor group led by William Chisholm that acquired the Boston Celtics aligns with activities typical of the Private Equity industry.
Financials
- $6.1 billion – The deal value for the sale of the majority control of the Boston Celtics.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boston Celtics | Target Company | Company | A professional basketball team with a rich history, acting as the target in the acquisition. |
| Grousbeck Family | Selling Company | People | The former ownership group of the Boston Celtics leading the sale. |
| William Chisholm | Bidding Company/Buyer | Person | Leader of the investor group purchasing the majority stake in the Boston Celtics. |
| Goodwin | Legal Advisor | Company | The law firm advising on tax matters during the sale process. |