Nearing the end of his illuminating NBA career, LeBron James has long professed his plans for the future. He has dreamed of prolonging his NBA legacy by transitioning into an owner. Which team? “I want to own a team in Vegas” he said in 2022 during an episode of ‘The Shop’. Since then, every talk of an expansion has brought his name forward. But what if his dream were to crumble?
Well, it’s very much possible now that Fenway Sports Group is “seriously” considering latching their paws on the current NBA champions Boston Celtics. Mere weeks after winning a record 18th championship, Wyc Grousbeck relayed his intentions to sell 100% of the franchise. Already the owner of the Boston Red Sox, FSG is looking to build its portfolio in the city.
How does this affect LeBron James?
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According to Joe Pompliano, James was hopeful that Fenway Sports Group would finance his dream of owning an NBA franchise when the expansion does take place. However, if they do buy the Celtics, as a minority partner in the firm, James will coincidentally become the next owner of the Celtics. Additionally, since FSG will have fulfilled its target of having an NBA team, their interest in a La Vegas venture would become futile.
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However, James wouldn’t become an immediate owner of the Celtics if the sale does happen this season. Initially, while still part of the NBA, James can’t be involved in the ownership of any other team. Hence, he will only be incorporated into the ownership framework when Grousbeck sells the remainder of 49% of his stake in 2028 as part of his two-phase plan.
LeBron James will manage the team he hates the most?
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The King and the city of Boston have a long history. And it’s a bitter one. Ever since being in the NBA, James has shared countless battles against the franchise, and even given them some postseason horrors. Notably, James was the protagonist in denying them a place in the NBA Finals in 2017.
More than that, he has also previously expressed his resentment toward the Boston fans.
“Because they’re racist as f**k, that’s why… I’ve been dealing with it my whole life. I don’t mind it. Like, I hear it. Like if I hear someone close by, I’ll check them real quick and move on to the game, whatever the f**k. They’re going to say whatever the f**k they want to say. They might throw something on you. I got a beer thrown on me leaving the game,” he said on The Shop.
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He reiterated similar emotions in 2022 during the Lakers media day. “I still hate Boston. Don’t get that twisted. We all hate Boston here”. Now, if Fenway Sports Group does take on the Celtics, James will be forced to not only bid adieu to a Las Vegas dream but also own the team he has publicly berated for their ruthless passion.
Do you think LeBron James will ever accept being an owner of the Boston Celtics? Let us know your views in the comments below.