Bill Simmons believes Jeff Bezo is in play to pursue his beloved Boston Celtics.
On his latest podcast episode, the longtime Boston sports fan said there’s “legitimate buzz” that the Amazon founder will try to purchase the prestigious NBA organization.
“I think it’s real,” Simmons said of Bezos looking at the Celtics. “I think he’s going to be one of the suitors.”
Bezos was often mentioned as a candidate to purchase the Washington Commanders, which sold for $6.05 billion to a group led by Josh Harris. Simmons said the Grousbeck family is also seeking $6 billion to sell the Celtics, which would shatter the $4 billion Mat Ishbia paid to buy the Phoenix Suns.
While he called it a “crazy” asking prize, Simmons thinks someone will likely meet it. Furthermore, Simmons believes the Grousbecks will sell to the highest bidder.
With a reported net worth of $196.7 billion, Bezos is one of few people with the funds to meet those lofty demands. Addressing why else the 60-year-old would want to own an NBA team, Simmons called it “a heat check” for Bezos while speculating that the sports connection could make him a more likable public figure if the Celtics succeed under his watch.
“If you’re Jeff Bezos, nobody’s rooting for you at this point … What happens when you buy a favorite sports team? You become a celebrity in that town,” Simmon said. “If the team does well, you’re beloved.”
Fenway Sports Group, which owns the Boston Red Sox, is also a reported suitor to buy the Celtics.