A family rift regarding the Boston Celtics' rising payroll has led Wyc Grousbeck to seek a sale of the majority stake in the franchise. With the Celtics' roster costs projected to reach approximately $500MM for the 2025/26 season and losses exceeding $80MM anticipated this season, the Grousbeck family faces financial pressures. Despite winning the championship in June, the team's extensive new contracts have spurred financial concerns, particularly for Irving Grousbeck, who controls 20% of the franchise and is reluctant to incur substantial losses.

By the Numbers
  • Projected total roster cost for the 2025/26 season: $500MM.
  • Anticipated losses for the current season: $80MM.
  • Team salary surpassing $225MM, leading to an estimated $280MM luxury tax payment.
Yes, But

While the Grousbecks claim the sale is for estate planning purposes, critics argue that financial losses play a significant role in the decision to sell. The complexity of the Celtics' financial situation, including the hefty luxury tax, raises questions about the family's true motivations.

State of Play
  • Team is projected to experience increased losses due to repeater tax penalties.
  • Sale is expected to result in a 51% stake being offered later this year or early 2025.
  • Current sale process is slow, with banks still reviewing team assets and liabilities.
What's Next

As the sale process continues, potential buyers may hesitate due to the Celtics' projected financial losses and lack of ownership of TD Garden, which limits additional revenue streams. The anticipated record valuation of $6 billion may be difficult to achieve without addressing these financial concerns.

Bottom Line

The ongoing family conflict over payroll and financial viability may leave the Celtics for sale longer than anticipated, complicating both their future operations and overall strategy in the competitive NBA landscape. Stakeholders should closely monitor the developments, as these decisions will have lasting implications for the team's performance and ownership structure.