In a move that could reshape the landscape of the NBA, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos is reportedly interested in purchasing the Boston Celtics. This revelation comes from Bill Simmons of The Ringer, who mentioned on his podcast that there is “legitimate buzz” around Bezos potentially buying the storied franchise.
The Celtics, one of the most successful teams in NBA history, are currently valued at around $6 billion. With the Grousbeck family looking to sell their majority stake, Bezos, the second-richest person in the world, seems like a fitting candidate.
Bezos has shown interest in owning a sports franchise before, notably the NFL’s Washington Commanders. His potential acquisition of the Celtics could be driven by several factors:
1. Financial Muscle: The Celtics have a high payroll and are expected to be a luxury tax-paying team for the foreseeable future. Bezos’s financial resources would easily cover these expenses.
2. Arena Ownership: Currently, the Celtics share the TD Garden with the NHL’s Boston Bruins. Bezos might be interested in building a state-of-the-art, basketball-exclusive arena, enhancing the team’s revenue streams and fan experience.
3. Expansion Plans: The NBA is eyeing expansion, with potential new teams in Seattle, Las Vegas, and possibly Mexico City. Establishing a high sale price for the Celtics could set a benchmark for these future franchises.
If Bezos were to buy the Celtics, it would not only be a significant move for the team but also for the league. His involvement could attract more high-profile investors to the NBA, driving up franchise values and increasing the league’s global reach. Additionally, Bezos’s innovative approach could lead to advancements in how the game is experienced by fans, both in arenas and through digital platforms.
