The Boston Celtics‘ sale process has come a long way since Wyc Grousbeck announced intentions to sell the team after their 18th title. In January, the interested suitors made their first offers. Now, the sale is entering the deciding phase, as four suitors have reportedly been finalized for what is touted to be the most expensive franchise sale in NBA history.
Grousbeck has been rather mute about the process. But as far as his expectation goes, some words do help it up. He wants the new ownership to “do the best thing for the Celtics”. At that, he is also extremely proud of the current roster, one that will be expensive to sustain from next season onwards.
But what do the players expect? After a critical win against the Miami Heat, Jayson Tatum provided a few words. He didn’t provide a detailed checklist. But there are a few things he hopes the new ownership will consider. “I don’t know, I look forward to whoever it is, you know, I trust the Wyc and Pag and those guys and their decision and understanding the culture… You know, we got some great people in this organization and this team and we’ve worked really hard to build something special. I mean, I trust the team to make the right decisions,” said Tatum.
FILE PHOTO: Jun 17, 2024; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics owner Wyc Grousbeck holds the trophy after winning the 2024 NBA Finals against the Dallas Mavericks at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Peter Casey-USA TODAY Sports
For those who haven’t been keeping up, here’s the jaw-dropping reality: keeping the Celtics’ championship core together next season could cost the owner a whopping $500 million. Yep, half a billion dollars just to keep the squad intact for another year. Tatum’s not wrong about the incredible culture they’ve built—there’s a lot to hold onto there.
But here’s the kicker: the new ownership group is reportedly shelling out $6 billion just to buy the franchise. That’s a price tag that’s never been seen before in the NBA. So, adding another $500 million to the mix? It seems pretty unlikely. It’s looking more and more like the team will need to make some tough calls on which players truly fit the culture moving forward. So, get ready for some tough goodbyes—it’s going to be a tricky balancing act.
However, the Shamrocks can also be confident about their competitive aspirations. Because even though the new ownership may have doubts, they still have Wyc Grousbeck.
Room for change but so much for the Celtics
The sale for the Boston Celtics won’t just be the most exorbitant sale in NBA history. It is also a one-of-a-kind agreement that allows Grousbeck to stay on the board. The transfer of ownership is to be divided into two phases. At first, the new owners get 51% of the stake. This allows Wyc Grousbeck to remain the governor which so far is reportedly for a timeframe of three years.
What does that mean? Well, Grousbeck mainly took over the Celtics in 2002 because he was a childhood fan of the franchise. And as he said, he wants to do what’s best for the Shamrocks. Hence, it may not be as expensive as $500 million as roster adjustments are a must. However, at the least, it does warrant the Celtics not losing some of their key players.
At this point, the tandem of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown seem to be players the franchise will surely not let go. And as far as retaining others goes, the likes of Derrick White and even Porzingis could be their priority as Jrue Holiday is approaching retirement soon. Nonetheless, it will be tricky.
From the four owners, which include the current minority owner Steve Pagliuca, William Chisholm, Philadelphia Phillies owner Stan Middleman, and The Friedkin Group, their willingness to splurge cash on the roster might be a factor in determining who takes over. Though, one thing is set. The sale process will be completed soon.
Whoever takes the reins next will have a huge say in the future of the Boston Celtics. Will they stick with the iconic roster that’s brought them so much success, or is a big shake-up in the cards? Right now, it’s anyone’s guess. The decision is still up in the air, and it’s impossible to predict how it’ll play out. All we can do is wait and see what direction the new ownership takes.
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