Ropes & Gray Advises Members of William Chisholm’s Investor Group in its Acquisition of the Boston Celtics

Ropes & Gray represented a group of non-controlling investors in connection with their investment in the new ownership group of the Boston Celtics. Following unanimous approval from the NBA Board of Governors, the investor group led by William Chisholm completed the acquisition of a majority control position in the 18-time NBA Champion Boston Celtics on August 18^th, 2025. Ropes & Gray's clients included two members of the Managing Board of the Boston Celtics. The Celtics announced the closing of the transaction in an August 19 press release.

Founded in 1946, the Boston Celtics are one of the most storied franchises in professional sports, with 18 NBA Championships and over 40 Hall of Famers. Known worldwide for their tradition of excellence, the Celtics have shaped the history of basketball and remain dedicated to winning championships while making a difference in the community.

The team was led by private equity partners PJ Sullivan and Will Shields, and included tax partners Brandon Dunn and Amanda Holt, and private capital transaction associates Adam Knapton and Josh DeMelo.