Last Updated on June 16, 2026 by Mat Diekhake
The Boston Celtics are one of the most successful franchises in professional sports, and much of their stability has come from long-term ownership groups. Since the team’s founding in 1946, only a handful of ownership changes have occurred.
Walter A. Brown (1946–1964)
Walter A. Brown founded the Boston Celtics in 1946 and became the franchise’s first owner. He played a major role in the formation of the Basketball Association of America, which later became the NBA. Under Brown’s ownership, the Celtics developed into a championship powerhouse, winning nine NBA titles during his tenure.
Brown Family Estate (1964–1969)
Following Walter Brown’s death in 1964, ownership of the Celtics remained with his family estate. The franchise continued its winning tradition, capturing several more championships during this period.
Trans National Communications (1969–1972)
The Celtics were sold to Trans National Communications in 1969. The corporate ownership period was relatively brief, lasting only a few years before the team changed hands again.
Irv Levin and Harold Lipton (1972–1983)
Entrepreneurs Irv Levin and Harold Lipton purchased the Celtics in 1972. During their ownership, Boston returned to prominence and laid the foundation for another championship era. In 1978, Levin orchestrated a franchise swap that ultimately left him with the Buffalo Braves while new ownership took control of the Celtics.
Harry Mangurian Jr. (1978–1983)
Harry Mangurian Jr. became the principal owner following the franchise swap. His tenure was short but notable because it preceded one of the most successful periods in Celtics history.
Don Gaston, Alan Cohen, and Larry H. Culpepper (1983–2002)
A group led by Don Gaston, Alan Cohen, and Larry H. Culpepper purchased the Celtics in 1983. The franchise won NBA championships in 1984 and 1986 during this ownership era. The group remained in control for nearly two decades.
Boston Basketball Partners LLC (2002–Present)
Boston Basketball Partners acquired the Celtics in 2002. The ownership group has been led primarily by Wyc Grousbeck, with Stephen Pagliuca serving as a key partner for many years. Under this ownership, the Celtics won the 2008 NBA Championship and returned to championship contention throughout the 2000s, 2010s, and 2020s.
Conclusion
The Celtics have experienced relatively few ownership changes compared to many professional sports franchises. From founder Walter A. Brown to the current Boston Basketball Partners group, each ownership era has contributed to the franchise’s reputation as one of the NBA’s premier organizations.