Last Updated on June 16, 2026 by Mat Diekhake
The Brooklyn Nets have undergone several ownership changes throughout their history, reflecting the franchise’s evolution from its ABA roots to its position as a major NBA team in New York City. Each ownership era has played a role in shaping the organization’s direction and identity.
Arthur J. Brown (1967–1968)
Arthur J. Brown was the original owner of the franchise when it was established as the New Jersey Americans in the American Basketball Association (ABA) in 1967. His ownership was brief, but he helped launch the team during the league’s inaugural season.
Roy Boe (1968–1978)
Roy Boe purchased the franchise in 1968 and relocated it to Long Island, where it became the New York Nets. During his ownership, the team enjoyed its greatest ABA success, winning championships in 1974 and 1976. Financial difficulties following the ABA-NBA merger eventually led to the sale of the franchise.
Alan N. Cohen and Joseph Taub (1978–1998)
Business partners Alan N. Cohen and Joseph Taub acquired the Nets in 1978. Their two-decade tenure brought greater stability to the organization as the team continued competing in New Jersey. The franchise made several playoff appearances during this period.
Raymond Chambers and Lewis Katz (1998–2004)
Investor Raymond Chambers led a group that purchased the Nets in 1998, with businessman Lewis Katz serving as a key partner. Under their ownership, the franchise reached the NBA Finals in both 2002 and 2003, marking one of the most successful stretches in team history.
Bruce Ratner (2004–2010)
Real estate developer Bruce Ratner acquired the Nets in 2004. He is best known for spearheading the plan to move the franchise from New Jersey to Brooklyn. His ownership laid the groundwork for the team’s future relocation and the construction of a new arena.
Mikhail Prokhorov (2010–2019)
Russian billionaire Mikhail Prokhorov became the majority owner in 2010. He completed the franchise’s move to Brooklyn in 2012 and oversaw the team’s transition into the Brooklyn Nets. Prokhorov invested heavily in the roster and helped establish the team’s presence in New York City’s sports market.
Joe Tsai (2019–Present)
Alibaba co-founder Joe Tsai became the majority owner of the Nets in 2019 after gradually increasing his stake in the franchise. Since taking control, Tsai has overseen the team’s continued efforts to compete for championships while expanding the organization’s global profile.
Conclusion
The Nets have experienced several ownership transitions since their founding in 1967. From Arthur J. Brown and Roy Boe in the ABA era to current owner Joe Tsai, each ownership group has influenced the franchise’s growth, including its move from New Jersey to Brooklyn and its emergence as a prominent NBA organization.