The price tag associated with the Phoenix Suns has been heavily discussed as of late, thanks to the "For Sale" sign slapped on the logo.
We've seen various estimates from outsiders who suggest the Suns will set a new NBA record for purchase price when Robert Sarver and company find a new winner. Some say close to $5 billion.
“This evaluation is going to go way higher than people think," said Bill Simmons.
"I told you this with the Clippers eight years ago, and I'm telling you now: The Suns are going to be valued at over $4 billion. Mark my words, you can throw it in my face if I'm wrong. I'm not wrong. I think it can get close to $5 billion. I think it will be in the $4.5 to $5 billion range... My prediction, I'm going on the record. The Suns, I'm gonna say: $4.7 [billion].”
NBA insider Marc Stein says the Suns are "destined" to break the record of $2 billion set by Steve Balmer when he purchased the Los Angeles Clippers.
In 2021, the Suns were valued at $1.8 billion by Forbes.
Now, in their recent evaluations, that number has climbed.
Forbes now has Phoenix valued at $2.7 billion, which ranks at No. 13 in the league.
Teams ahead of them (with estimated value)
1. Golden State Warriors ($7 billion)
2. New York Knicks ($6.1 billion)
3. Los Angeles Lakers ($5.9 billion)
4. Chicago Bulls ($4.1 billion)
5. Boston Celtics ($4 billion)
6. Los Angeles Clippers ($3.9 billion)
7. Brooklyn Nets ($3.5 billion)
8. Dallas Mavericks ($3.3 billion)
9. Houston Rockets ($3.2 billion)
10. Philadelphia 76ers ($3.15 billion)
11. Toronto Raptors ($3.1 billion)
12. Miami Heat ($3 billion)
Phoenix's 50% increase from one year ago is by far the highest in the NBA, with Miami and Washington tied for the next highest spot at a 30% increase.
Forbes says the growth isn't done.
"Future growth will come from the league’s next national media deal, which would begin with the 2025-26 season and should be worth at least double its current $2.66 billion-a-year agreement with ESPN and Turner Sports. In addition, there’s the fledgling NBA Equity, a new initiative akin to 32 Equity, the NFL’s venture capital arm, which is worth over $100 million per team. NBA Equity was created in order for the league to invest in existing or potential partners, from early-stage to growth-stage startups, that will help drive innovation and expand the NBA’s business," said Forbes.
The timetable for Phoenix's sale is still unknown, but the forecast continues to clear clouds in terms of price.
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