In an unexpected twist, the Boston Celtics have made the stunning announcement that they intend to sell the franchise for the first time since its purchase in 2002. Current owners Wyc Grousbeck and Steve Pagliuca led the acquisition of the 18-time champions for $360 million, but it seems that a significant factor behind this decision is the discontent of Irving Grousbeck, the 90-year-old father of Wyc Grousbeck. According to reports, Irving is concerned about the franchise's direction, particularly its enlarged roster cost, which has put them in a financially risky situation.

The Celtics' offseason has been marked by significant roster moves, including re-signing Jaylen Brown to a record-breaking contract worth $285 million. They also secured deals for players like Kristaps Porzingis ($60 million), Jrue Holiday ($135 million), Derrick White ($125 million), and Jayson Tatum, who signed the league's highest contract at $315 million. As a result, the Celtics now boast the most expensive starting lineup in the NBA, a fact that Irving Grousbeck appears to take issue with.

The high cost of the team has made it more challenging to sell the billion-dollar franchise. The league is reportedly considering alternative sale structures to facilitate a deal. Sources suggest that while Wyc Grousbeck is willing to spend whatever it takes to maintain the team's competitiveness, his father is not inclined to sign off on such big-dollar checks, as he prioritizes financial stability.

With Wyc Grousbeck holding approximately 3% ownership stake and Irving Grousbeck attached to roughly 20%, the Grousbeck family stands to make a handsome profit from the sale of the Celtics. Forbes estimates the franchise's worth to be around $4.7 billion. However, the departure of Wyc Grousbeck after 22 years as a hands-on owner raises questions about the future of the team. Will the next owner prioritize retaining the expensive but elite core? Could relocation to a new arena be on the horizon? And, perhaps most pressing, can a billion-dollar outside businessperson seamlessly assimilate with Boston's culture?

This announcement comes after the sale of the Dallas Mavericks for $3.5 billion last December, making it the most recent NBA team to change hands. As the Celtics navigate this important transition, fans and analysts alike will closely monitor the developments and eagerly anticipate the future direction and success of the historic franchise.