The NBA continues its upward trajectory as one of the most lucrative sports leagues in the world, with franchise valuations reaching record highs. Recent blockbuster sales and a new media rights deal have propelled team values into the stratosphere.
- Golden State Warriors – Approx. $9.1 Billion
The Warriors top the list, valued between $9.0 and $9.4 billion depending on the source. Their dominant run in the past decade, cutting-edge Chase Center, and presence in the Bay Area tech market have made them the league’s financial powerhouse.
- New York Knicks – Approx. $7.7 Billion
The Knicks remain a financial juggernaut thanks to their location at Madison Square Garden and their massive presence in the world’s largest media market. Despite limited on-court success, their brand power keeps them among the elite.
- Los Angeles Lakers – Approx. $7.4 Billion (Sold for $10B in 2025)
The Lakers’ brand, history of championships, and star-studded reputation led to the highest franchise sale in sports history in June 2025, when Mark Walter purchased a majority stake for $10 billion.
- Boston Celtics – $6.1 Billion (Recent Sale)
In March 2025, the Celtics were sold for $6.1 billion to investor Bill Chisholm, setting a record for the most expensive sale of a North American sports team. Their 18 NBA titles and historical prestige played a key role in the valuation.
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Top 10 NBA Franchise Valuations (Forbes, 2024–25 Season)
Rank Team Valuation
- Golden State Warriors $8.8B
- New York Knicks $7.5B
- Los Angeles Lakers $7.1B
- Boston Celtics $6.0B
- LA Clippers $5.5B
- Chicago Bulls $5.0B
- Houston Rockets $4.9B
- Brooklyn Nets $4.8B
- Dallas Mavericks $4.7B
- Philadelphia 76ers $4.6B
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What’s Driving These Valuations?
- Media Deals: A new $77 billion media rights deal has increased revenue projections across the league.
- Arena Development: State-of-the-art arenas like the Chase Center and Intuit Dome create major revenue opportunities.
- Ownership: New investors are injecting capital, pushing valuations higher with each sale.
- Global Branding: Teams like the Lakers, Celtics, and Warriors have built global followings, driving merchandising and international growth.
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Recent Record-Breaking Franchise Sales
- Los Angeles Lakers: Sold for $10 billion in June 2025 to Dodgers co-owner Mark Walter.
- Boston Celtics: Sold for $6.1 billion in March 2025 to billionaire investor Bill Chisholm.
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Final Thoughts
The NBA’s franchise values are soaring to unprecedented levels. With teams like the Warriors nearing $9 billion in value and others like the Lakers and Celtics setting sale price records, the league has firmly positioned itself as a global business titan. As media rights expand and potential new markets like Seattle and Las Vegas await expansion, expect franchise valuations to continue climbing in the years ahead.
