New Celtics Owners Promise Continuity and Success
The Boston Celtics are in transition, but the arrival of new owners promises continuity in the pursuit of success. Bill Chisholm, the new owner, has assured that he will not interfere with the team that has won two NBA championships in the last 23 years.Chisholm, a Massachusetts native with experience in private equity, leads the group that acquired the Celtics for a record $6.1 billion. The deal was unanimously approved by the NBA last month. Chisholm expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity to own the team he loves.“We will do everything we can to win championships and raise more banners,” Chisholm declared at a press conference, accompanied by former owner Wyc Grousbeck, current president Rich Gotham, and president of basketball operations Brad Stevens.
Bill Chisholm
Wyc Grousbeck, who led the purchase of the Celtics in 2002 for $360 million, will remain with the team as CEO for five years, with the intention of remaining involved. Grousbeck, who owns two championship rings, aspires to win a third and a fourth. In addition to Grousbeck, more than half of the former ownership group will remain linked to the team, along with Stevens, Gotham, and coach Joe Mazzulla. Chisholm made it clear who will be in charge:“The Celtics have given me joy all my life. I feel like I can contribute something here. This was a dream opportunity that came true. I wouldn’t forgive myself if I didn’t take advantage of it,” Chisholm stated.
Bill Chisholm
Chisholm also expressed his interest in bringing a WNBA team to Boston, although the league prioritizes cities that have already requested expansion teams. He was also pleased with TD Garden as the team’s venue. Aditya Mittal, CEO of ArcelorMittal, was also present at the conference, recalling his first visit to Boston in the 1980s and his experience at a Celtics game in the old Boston Garden. The Celtics’ future presents challenges due to the salary cap. The team made significant trades, such as those of Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, to avoid the penalties of the NBA’s second “apron”. Brad Stevens explained that these moves were due to the need for flexibility in the roster. Chisholm summarized his message to the basketball operations team: “Let’s go for it, but reasonably.” His priority is to win.“There’s a governor, and that’s me. Ultimately, I’m the one responsible.”
Bill Chisholm
