The Boston Celtics remain one of the hottest teams in the NBA. The defending champions sit second in the Eastern Conference, gaining momentum for the playoffs. If healthy, they have to be considered favorites to come out of the East.
With such a powerhouse roster, the Celtics draw plenty of attention. That attention has led to a major announcement: a massive change in the organization’s foundation. The Celtics have been sold for $6.1 billion to William Chisholm and his consortium. Chisholm is the co-founder and managing partner of Symphony Technology Group.
The sale marks the largest in North American sports history, surpassing the $6.05 billion sale of the Washington Commanders in 2023. After the Grousbeck family announced they would be selling the team, numerous offers poured in. Ultimately, they chose Chisholm’s group, citing his passion for the franchise as a lifelong Celtics fan.
Stephen Pagliuca Addresses the Boston Celtics’ Sale
Stephen Pagliuca, a key figure in the Celtics’ ownership structure, was among those bidding for the team. As co-owner and chairperson of Bain Capital, which manages assets worth $1.08 billion, Pagliuca had both the financial means and familiarity with the franchise.
Given his deep ties to the Celtics, Pagliuca’s bid seemed like a strong possibility. However, his offer was not selected.
Pagliuca released a statement on X expressing disappointment over the decision, revealing that his group made a fully guaranteed offer at a record price but still lost out.
“We made a fully guaranteed and financed offer at a record price, befitting the best sports fans in the world, and with all the capital coming from individuals who are fully committed to winning on and off the court. We had no debt or private equity money that would potentially hamstring our ability to compete in the future,” Pagliuca said in his statement.
“We have felt it was the best offer for the Celtics. It is a bid of true fans, deeply connected to Boston’s community, and we’ve been saddened to find out that we have not been selected in the process.”
Here's my statement on today's news. pic.twitter.com/lhKCslEcgF
— Steve Pagliuca (@pagsceltics) March 20, 2025
While Pagliuca was unsuccessful in his bid, he still plans to be a big supporter of the Celtics and wishes the best for the team. He also let it be known that if this sale doesn’t get finalized, he will be ready with another offer.
Can the Celtics Win Another Championship?
The question on everyone’s mind is simple: Can the Celtics go back-to-back? With a record of 50-19, second in the Eastern Conference, they could finish with 55+ wins.
They will have a favorable matchup in the NBA playoffs to start, and despite the Cleveland Cavaliers being the top team in the conference, the Celtics could have the advantage given their proven championship pedigree (two appearances and one win since the 2022 NBA Finals).
Will the Celtics be able to pull it off and win another championship amidst this current crowded and talented field? They have a chance and should be considered among the favorites to hoist the trophy at season’s end.