Jeff Bezos Eyes Celtics Purchase as NBA Valuation Hits $6 Billion: Bill Simmons

After a failed attempt to acquire the NFL's Washington Commanders, Jeff Bezos has shifted his focus to one of the NBA's premier teams.

The Amazon founder is reportedly interested in purchasing the Boston Celtics, according to Bill Simmons on his podcast. The Grousbeck family is looking to sell the team following their NBA championship win in June.

“There’s been some credible buzz recently about Jeff Bezos potentially buying the Celtics,” Simmons said. “Given his vast wealth, it makes sense he would target one of the league’s crown-jewel franchises, similar to how he might invest in a luxurious $300 million yacht.”

Simmons also mentioned that the NBA is aiming for a $6 billion sale price for the Celtics, aligning with their target for expansion teams. “It’s an extraordinary amount, but they’re likely to achieve it,” Simmons added. “The league wants to set the bar high for expansion teams in Seattle, Vegas, and possibly Mexico City, with each franchise valued at $6 billion, resulting in a $400 million payout for each NBA owner.”

Although there were uncertainties about Dan Snyder's willingness to sell the Commanders to Bezos, the Financial Times reported in June that Bezos was outbid by Josh Harris, who purchased the NFL team for $6.05 billion.

The Celtics' ownership announced on July 1 their intention to sell the team due to estate and family planning reasons, with a majority sale expected by late 2024 or early 2025, and the remainder sold in 2028.

Additionally, the Post reported earlier this month that Fenway Sports Group has shown interest in buying the Celtics.

Wyc Grousbeck, who has been overseeing the Celtics on behalf of his father, Irv, plans to continue in his role as team governor until the sale of the team is completed in four years.

“The expectation is to sell the time in two parts with 51 percent going fairly soon, 49 percent then closing in second closing. That’s the expectation in 2028,” Grousbeck told CNBC last month. “I’m planning or expecting to stay on until 2028. We’re going to hire bankers and advisers. This is going to be quite the bidding process.”