A source indicates that a sale of the Boston Celtics is likely to be finalized early in 2025. The Celtics were officially put on the market in July and the sale process has been progressing rapidly in recent weeks.
Stephen Pagliuca is considered a frontrunner to acquire the franchise, as he currently holds a 20 percent ownership stake in the Celtics.
According to an investor, there seems to be a turning point approaching in the sale process. Many long-standing team owners in various sports leagues are asset rich but cash poor, as the value of sports franchises continues to grow significantly.
The Boston Celtics will become the ninth NBA team to undergo a change in controlling ownership since 2019. While Forbes values the Celtics at $6 billion, Sportico values the team at $5.12 billion. Predictions for the sale price range from close to $6 billion to $4.75 billion.
Wyc Grousbeck serves as the team’s lead governor but only owns about two percent of the franchise, while he and his father, Irv, collectively own around 30 percent.
One individual familiar with the Celtics ownership structure described it as a complex agreement.
