The Portland Trail Blazers’ team valuation is experiencing a significant surge ahead of an anticipated sale. Following the passing of former owner Paul Allen in October 2018, the franchise, alongside the Seattle Seahawks and several other assets, was bequeathed to his sister, Jody, through a trust. Jody Allen currently serves as the executor of her brother’s estate, with a primary directive to eventually divest the sports teams. The timing of this potential sale is crucial, coinciding with a dramatic increase in NBA team valuations across the league. Recent developments demonstrate a considerable rise in value, exemplified by the Boston Celtics’ controlled stake being sold to private equity billionaire William Chisholm for a staggering $6.1 billion, and the Los Angeles Lakers’ ownership interest being acquired by businessman Mark Walter for a remarkable $10 billion. While the Trail Blazers, operating in a smaller market without other major professional sports teams, aren’t likely to achieve valuations comparable to these flagship franchises, the situation is still promising. Considering Paul Allen’s initial investment of $70 million in 1988, the current outlook suggests a substantial return for the Allen family.
According to Bruce Schoenfeld of The Sports Business Journal, a recent artificial intelligence (AI) appraisal estimates the Trail Blazers’ value to be slightly above $70 million, reflecting a considerable appreciation over the past three and a half decades. This assessment also places the Seahawks at a valuation of $7 billion and the Blazers approaching $4 billion, figures that deviate somewhat from CNBC’s more recent valuations of approximately $6 billion and $3.5 billion respectively. However, it's important to acknowledge that these valuations could become irrelevant once the bidding process begins, mirroring the dynamic seen with iconic artworks like the Cezannes and Gauguins sold at Christie’s. The potential sale of these two teams could ultimately yield even greater returns.
Last season, the Portland Trail Blazers finished with a record of 36-46, failing to secure a spot in the play-in tournament. Despite this outcome, general manager Joe Cronin has overseen a considerable roster overhaul in recent months. This included the buyout of starting center Deandre Ayton and a strategic trade down in the draft, resulting in the selection of rookie center Yang Hansen with the No. 16 pick. Furthermore, Cronin acquired six-time All-Defensive Team guard Jrue Holiday and successfully reunited him with the team, bringing back nine-time All-Star point guard Damian Lillard, who was drafted by the Trail Blazers in 2012. However, Lillard is currently recovering from a torn Achilles tendon and faces the possibility of missing the entire 2025-26 season. The question remains whether the team can return to the playoffs for the first time under the leadership of head coach Chauncey Billups. Ultimately, the success of this endeavor will depend on several factors, including Lillard’s recovery and the team’s overall performance.
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