Celtics Ownership Bid: Fenway Sports Group and RedBird Capital in the Mix
- Julia Koch, widow of David Koch, held meetings with Boston Celtics owner.
- There are discussions about a possible sale of the Boston Celtics.
- LeBron James may be involved in the potential purchase of the team.
The Boston Celtics may soon find themselves under the ownership of the same group that owns the Boston Red Sox. Fenway Sports Group, alongside RedBird Capital, which has ties to NBA star LeBron James, is reportedly considering a bid for the Celtics. While James, currently with the Los Angeles Lakers, cannot directly participate in the ownership due to league rules, he could potentially become an owner of the Celtics by 2028, when the sale of 49% of the team is finalized. Fenway Sports Group, which also owns the NESN sports network, is actively pursuing an NBA franchise in Las Vegas, a venture that includes plans for a new arena. LeBron James, who became a billionaire in 2022, has expressed interest in following in the footsteps of Michael Jordan, who recently sold his stake in the Charlotte Hornets. This ambition aligns with the ongoing discussions about the Celtics' ownership transition. Current Celtics owner Wyc Grousbeck is offering 51% of the team for sale now, with the remaining 49% to be sold when he steps down as governor in 2028. Co-owner Steve Pagliuca, who holds a 20% stake, may opt to roll over his investment, potentially giving him a competitive edge in the bidding process. Additionally, the Koch family, known for their substantial wealth, is rumored to be interested in acquiring a controlling stake in an NBA franchise. As the Celtics navigate a challenging financial landscape, facing a record luxury tax and lacking ownership of their home arena, the new ownership will need to address these issues while managing the team's future.