Amazon founder Jeff Bezos might be in the running to purchase the Boston Celtics, according to reports. Bill Simmons of The Ringer revealed on his podcast that the NBA is encouraging the sale of the Celtics for a staggering $6 billion, with expansion on the horizon. This revelation comes just weeks after the Celtics claimed the 2024 NBA Championship, with their ownership group, led by Wyc Grousbeck, announcing plans to sell the team on July 1.
Simmons, who hinted at insider knowledge, described the situation as a “huge topic” among potential team buyers. He explained that the sale is being driven by Irving Grousbeck, Wyc’s 90-year-old father, who is focused on securing the highest possible price. This means that local connections won’t give prospective buyers any advantage in the bidding process.
In recent days, rumors have intensified regarding Bezos’ interest in acquiring the Celtics. Simmons emphasized the legitimacy of these reports, stating, “I think it’s real… I think he’s going to be one of the suitors.” The NBA, he noted, is targeting a $6 billion sale price, despite the fact that the Celtics do not own their arena—a factor that makes this price point particularly ambitious.
But why $6 billion? According to Simmons, the NBA is setting this benchmark to pave the way for future expansion, particularly with potential new teams in Seattle and Las Vegas. The league hopes to secure $6 billion in expansion fees for each new team, which would translate to a hefty $400 million payout to each of the 30 current NBA owners. Simmons also mentioned that Mexico City is a potential location for a third expansion team.
For context, recent transactions in the sports world highlight the significance of this valuation. Mat Ishbia acquired the Phoenix Suns and WNBA’s Mercury for $4 billion in 2022, while the Nets and Liberty were valued at $6 billion when owner Joe Tsai sold a minority stake earlier this year.
Jeff Bezos, who previously explored buying the NFL’s Washington Commanders, has shown a strong interest in owning a major sports franchise. In 2023, he engaged investment firm Allen & Company to evaluate a bid for the Commanders, though the team was ultimately purchased by a group led by Josh Harris. Bezos has also expressed interest in acquiring the Seattle Seahawks.
Meanwhile, the Celtics are building an increasingly expensive roster. This offseason, the team signed Jayson Tatum to a record-breaking five-year, $314 million contract extension, following Jaylen Brown’s five-year, $285 million extension the previous summer. Derrick White also secured a four-year, $118 million extension. The Celtics’ financial commitments suggest that their roster will be among the most expensive in NBA history for years to come.
As the NBA contemplates expansion and potential new ownership for one of its storied franchises, Bezos’ involvement could signal significant shifts in the league’s landscape.
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