Club 520 - Wyc Grousbeck on ’08 & ’24 titles w/ Pierce & Tatum, SELLING HIS HOUSE to buy Celtics

Summary

Club 520 Podcast - Detailed Summary: "Wyc Grousbeck on ’08 & ’24 Titles with Pierce & Tatum, Selling His House to Buy Celtics"

Introduction In this episode of the Club 520 Podcast, hosted by D.J. Wells, the conversation centers around Will Grossman, the former owner of the Boston Celtics. The discussion delves into Grossman's unconventional journey to acquiring the Celtics, his strategic decisions that led to championship victories, and the intricate relationships within the team and the broader NBA landscape.

Acquiring the Boston Celtics Will Grossman's acquisition of the Celtics is nothing short of remarkable. At [04:54], Grossman recounts, "I'm the luckiest guy. I was 41 years old. It was 2002, and I...mortgage my house and buy an NBA team." This bold move was driven by his passion for the team rather than financial gain. Grossman describes approaching the then-owner, expressing his desire to purchase the Celtics despite lacking the immediate funds. His determination paid off when he secured the investment, ultimately bringing together 25 partners to support his venture.

Building a Championship-Winning Team Grossman's tenure as owner was marked by significant changes on the business side, which led to a refreshed organizational structure. At [07:29], he shares, "I made some changes on the business side, and within a year, the top of the business side knew. We're nice guys, but they weren't seeing eye to eye." This restructuring paved the way for key hires such as Danny Ainge and Brad Stevens, whose leadership was instrumental in crafting a formidable team. Grossman highlights the success of these strategies by mentioning the acquisition of stars like Paul Pierce and the development of talents such as Jayson Tatum.

Championship Triumphs Under Grossman's ownership, the Celtics secured two championship titles. Discussing the 2008 championship, Grossman reflects on the nerve-wracking process of trading high-value players like Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen, stating at [09:54], "There was nerves because that was, I think three max contracts at once with Ray." The calculated risks paid off, culminating in a memorable victory over the Lakers by 39 points in Game Six, a feat Grossman commemorates by having a license plate with the number "39".

Further, the 2024 championship holds a special place for Grossman, as it coincided with his personal life milestone. At [09:22], he shares, "This one feels a little more like, what do you got? Plus this one. My wife Amelia and I are together." The synergy between professional success and personal happiness marked this second triumph as particularly fulfilling.

Challenges and Difficult Decisions Grossman candidly discusses the challenges faced during his ownership. One significant decision was trading Kendrick Perkins, which he admits at [25:34], "I do regret trading Perk." This trade had a lasting impact on team dynamics and performance. Additionally, injuries to key players like Jeff Teague posed hurdles, as Grossman acknowledges the unpredictability of sports and the emotional toll of seeing talented players sidelined.

Relationships and Team Culture A recurring theme in the conversation is the importance of relationships within the organization. Grossman emphasizes the camaraderie among players and management, stating at [21:26], "It's amazing. First of all, the guys know that the owners in general, and in our case, for sure, all my whole group, we're in it to win it." The strong bonds fostered a supportive environment conducive to teamwork and mutual respect, essential for the Celtics' sustained success.

Sponsorships and Partnerships Throughout the episode, Grossman touches upon his ventures outside basketball, notably the tequila brand Sakuro. At [14:14], he explains, "We’ve sold two and a half million bottles. We won 29 gold medals in spirits competitions, and we're going global." This endeavor showcases Grossman's entrepreneurial spirit and his ability to leverage his network, including partnerships with legends like Michael Jordan and Jeanie Buss.

Adapting to League Changes The evolving landscape of the NBA and its impact on team management is another focal point. Grossman discusses how shifts in free agency and player movement require adaptability. At [20:13], he notes, "We don’t have a team where the players put it together...We have to respect that." This perspective underscores the necessity of balancing strategic planning with the autonomy and aspirations of players.

Conclusion Will Grossman's journey with the Boston Celtics is a testament to passion-driven leadership and strategic vision. From mortgaging his house to lead a storied franchise to championship glory, Grossman's story is one of risk, resilience, and unwavering dedication. His insights into team building, relationship management, and navigating the complexities of the NBA provide valuable lessons for sports enthusiasts and aspiring sports executives alike.

Notable Quotes:

• "I sold my house to buy the Celtics because I did it for love." — Will Grossman [05:17]
• "The first championship could be luck, but the second felt like what we got—locked in." — Will Grossman [09:22]
• "It's amazing. First of all, the guys know that the owners in general...we're in it to win it." — Will Grossman [21:26]

Timestamp Highlights:

• [04:54] – Grossman explains how he purchased the Celtics.
• [09:22] – Reflection on the 2024 championship.
• [14:14] – Discussion about Sakuro tequila.
• [20:13] – Adapting to changes in the NBA.
• [25:34] – Regrets about trading Perkins.

This episode offers an in-depth look into the life of a sports executive who turned his passion into success, providing listeners with both entertainment and insightful perspectives on the world of professional basketball.

Transcript

[Podcast Host]

This is an iHeart podcast.

[Advertiser 1]

Okay? Have you heard about this? Last year, Degree changed the formula for their Cool Rush deodorant. Their fans rebelled and wanted the old scent back, and Degree listened. That doesn't happen often.

[Advertiser 2]

They admitted that they effed up and are bringing the original Cool Rush scent back. And it's exactly how you remember it. Cool, crisp and fresh. There's a reason it's the number one men's antiperspirant and is back in Walmart, Target and other stores for under $4.

[Advertiser 1]

So try it and see what the fuss is about. Head to your local stores to try the OG Cool Rush for yourself.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Hey, it's Ryan Seacrest for Albertsons N Safeway, now through July 15. Stock up on all your favorite personal care brands and earn four times points to use on later purchases. For discounts on groceries or gas. Shop in store or online for items like Pantene Shampoo, Old Spice, Total Body Deodorant, Tampax Pearl Venus Razors, Head and Shoulder Shampoo, Olay Body Wash, and Pantene conditioner and earn four times points. Hurry before these deals are gone. Offer ends July 15th. Restrictions apply. Offers make may vary. Visit albertsons or safeway.com for more details.

[Riley Herbs]

Riley herbs from 2311 Racing here and you know what grinds my gears? Waiting for coffee. But instead of counting frappes and lattes, I fire up Chumba Casino. No apps, no fuss, just fun social casino games to pass the time. By the time my coffee's ready, I've already taken a few victory laps. Next time you're stuck waiting, make it entertaining. Play for [e-mail] let's Chumba sponsored by Chumba Casino.

[Ryan Seacrest]

No purchase necessary.

[Colin Cowherd]

VGW Group voidware prohibited by law 21 + terms and conditions apply. Hi, it's Colin from the Colin Coward Podcast. I've been around long enough to know quality when I see it. Or in this case, when I taste it. Tito's Handmade Vodka. Good stuff. No flash, no gimmicks. Smooth, clean, tasting, made the right way. Tito's made in Austin, Texas. Real attention to detail. I like to keep it simple. Tito's Soda, one lime, lot of ice. Refreshing, easy. Summer, winter, spring. Totally versatile. Always works. Listen, baseball season's here. The perfect time to kick back with some Tito's. It's what I pour. You should too. Distilled and bottled by 5th Generation Inc. Austin, Texas. 40% alcohol by volume. Savor responsibly the volume.

[D.J. Wells]

Yo yo yo, what's happening? Fanatics, Facts. How y' all doing. Yo, yo, yo, baby. Good energy for sure, for sure, for sure. Man, you know what it is. Club520 podcast live at Fanatics Fest. Man, we appreciate y' all pulling up. We got some dope guests pulling up. But first and foremost, man, I'm the host. My name is D.J. wells. You know what it is saying, gang. With me on the road to my far left, we got my dog Bishop B here and out the pearlies. How you what, Nasty?

[Bishop B]

What's happening, Nasty? Hey, make sure y' all wear that Tommy John. Put them draws on, put them hats on. You know what I mean?

[D.J. Wells]

Shout out to Tommy John, baby, I ain't gonna lie. Put them draws on is crazy.

[Bishop B]

Get right, get right.

[D.J. Wells]

Shout out to Tommy John, for sure. To my far right, my dog, Young Nacho, Young Teague. How you what?

[Young Nacho]

I'm chilling, bro. Happy to be here. I got a nice crowd. It's gonna be a vibe for sure.

[D.J. Wells]

Most definitely, man. We gonna kick it off first, man. We got a special, special guest in the building, man. Entrepreneur, philanthropist, and you most best know him as the former owner of the Boston Celtics, man, we got the one and only Mr. Will Grossman in the building. Appreciate you, big dog. Join us on stage.

[Will Grossman]

Hey, for the Knicks fans, nice win, but this is what a ring looks like.

[Bishop B]

Show that ring on.

[D.J. Wells]

One top.

[Young Nacho]

I like that energy.

[Will Grossman]

Yeah.

[Bishop B]

Hold on. Before we start, man, you gotta break the ring down. You gotta. I know what you share with us back there. Tell us. Tell them what's inside the ring, man.

[Will Grossman]

All right, hang on to this. All right, Inside there. You open it up. Banner 18.

[D.J. Wells]

Yeah.

[Will Grossman]

That's the parquet floor. The final score, Boston 106, Dallas 88.

[Bishop B]

Belt of ass.

[D.J. Wells]

Most definitely, man. Before we get started, man, you know the vi. We got a shout out to Boost Mobile, man. Boost marble Paris Club 520. We appreciate y' all. You know what it is? $25. How long? Where they at with the team?

[Young Nacho]

It's 5G nationwide. $25. Hey, no hike prices. It's going to be $25. You going to step in? You going to get that $25?

[D.J. Wells]

Come on, man. You need a burner phone. Get your girl a phone. Anybody need a phone, tap in with Boost Mobile.

[Will Grossman]

What's a burner phone?

[Bishop B]

We'll talk to you about that off the court.

[Young Nacho]

We'll see you later.

[D.J. Wells]

You got to hide the championship ring.

[Young Nacho]

For the burner phone.

[D.J. Wells]

Most definitely, man. But first things first. We appreciate you having us on the show, man. Man, you are a man of many Hats. But we want to say, you know, you grew up Massachusetts. What's it like being able to purchase your favorite team?

[Will Grossman]

I'm the luckiest guy. I was 41 years old. It was 2002, and I. That was back when you could mortgage your house and buy an NBA team. And that's what I did. I never had any money, but I didn't do it for money. I did it for love. I did it for love. Jeff Teague was on our team, a great person, a great player, but the Celtics are a way of life, and I'm very lucky to be able to have my hometown team.

[D.J. Wells]

Man, that is beautiful. You had a very interesting point. You said, mortgage your house. I was going to ask. I don't even know how. How do you even start the process of acquiring a team? But you said, starting with the mortgage refinance.

[Will Grossman]

It started that. I went to the Garden. I've been born and raised. I went there, and it was half empty. In 2002, the team wasn't playing well. And I'm like, this is half empty. And I'm like, I wonder who's the owner? And they said, oh, he lives down in New York. And he turns out to be a very nice guy. I went to find him. They said he hadn't been here in three and a half, four years. He hadn't come to the games.

[Bishop B]

Wow.

[Will Grossman]

And. But a very nice guy. But. So I'm like, wonder if he might be interested in selling. And so I go down and find him and shake his hand and say, what do you want? I said, I'd like to buy the Celtics. And he goes, they're not for sale. And I said, well, is there a crazy number? And he named a crazy number, like, way too high, really. But I didn't have the money. I said, I don't have the money, but I'll get it in four months, three and a half months. And I. So I didn't give him a chance, and so I took his price. I didn't negotiate. He named the number. It was a record. And I just said, okay, I figure I could probably get it. And I. And then I said, why are you this much next week? To keep you just keep it a deposit. And I named a number, which wasn't very much for the team, but it was a lot for me. And he goes, all right, what's he gonna do? He had to say, yes, free money. So I shake his hand. I go home, mortgage my house, send him the money. And then three months later, I had 25 partners. And we had all the money and I lost 17 pounds. I didn't eat or sleep.

[Young Nacho]

Wow.

[Will Grossman]

I looked like Jeff Teague. Anyway, very lucky story, man.

[D.J. Wells]

You was locked in. That's a hell of a story.

[Will Grossman]

But I did it totally for love. I just did it for love. Yeah.

[D.J. Wells]

And you could tell by the way the organizations ran, obviously under your TO list. The love was back in the Garden. You had what, Paul Pierce, Antoine Walker back then.

[Will Grossman]

Yeah.

[D.J. Wells]

So I gotta ask, what's it like? First day, you the man, Biggest friend. One of the biggest franchises in sports history. One of the craziest fan base ever. What's it like? Day one when you lock in?

[Will Grossman]

I know.

[Bishop B]

So hold on. What's your first adjustment?

[Will Grossman]

Oh, the first adjustment. I made some changes on the business side, and within a year, the top of the business side knew. We're nice guys, but they weren't seeing eye to eye. Then the general manager and then the whole coaching staff, they were all gone.

[Young Nacho]

He came and cleaned house.

[Will Grossman]

And I am not. I shouldn't. I mean, it's not funny.

[Bishop B]

Yeah.

[Will Grossman]

I had never run a business. I hadn't run a McDonald's. I hadn't run anything. But I just had to try to do it with my gut. And these are good people and nice people. But we made changes, and it ended up that we ended up. Maybe it could have worked out if I didn't make the changes. I want to say that. But it worked out. When we did make the change, we brought in Danny Ainge, and then we brought in Brad Stevens. Oh, Doc Rivers and Brad Stevens. And I promoted Brad to gm, and now we got Joe Missoula, and we got two rings along the way.

[Young Nacho]

Speaking of Brad Stevens, when I was in Boston for my short period of time, he changed my name. I don't know if you heard the story. My name is Jeff Teague. Y' all had Jason Tatum on the team at the time. I'm the real JT but he changed my name to Jet. So you might hear people out here calling me Jet. And it was a funny story. I think I was in my 12th year. JT might have been in his fifth or sixth year. And I lost my name to Jayson Tatum. And I wanted to know, was I the real J.T. or was he real J.T.

[Will Grossman]

Well, I got. I. I'm gonna see you today, but I'm gonna see him for the next six years.

[Bishop B]

That's a fair answer.

[Will Grossman]

I'm just gonna call you Dave.

[D.J. Wells]

I got a whole new day.

[Young Nacho]

Dave T. I guess my cousin I got a cousin Dave. Dave. All right.

[Bishop B]

Oh, man.

[D.J. Wells]

Okay, we go skip around a little bit though. But first things first, I want to ask you, obviously, you know what I'm saying? We see the bling bling, which championship felt better, 08 or 2024?

[Will Grossman]

I don't have to choose. But the first one could be luck. The second one feels a little more like, what do you got? You know, it locks it in. Plus this one. My wife Amelia and I are together. We got married eight years ago. She got her parade. It was heaven, dear.

[Young Nacho]

Heaven was that first championship when you made the big trade for Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen, Was there any kind of nerves there? Did you know, like, hey, we all in right here, we gotta win it? Or was it like, hey, whatever happens, happens?

[Will Grossman]

There was nerves because that was, I think three max contracts at once with Ray. And I had to gather my partners together and I said, if this works, we're gonna win. If it doesn't work and it blows up, we got a big, a lot of contract numbers here and we're gonna have to do a capital call around. We're gonna have to each ship in more money, you know, if this goes really bad because we're putting everything, pushing everything in. And I looked at him, I said, are we okay with that? I want to, I want to do it for my part, but I'm not a super wealthy guy, you know, like that. And we would all have to do it, you know what I mean? And so I'm just saying, are we all good going for it? And I looked at the very first guy, I picked him on purpose, and he said, I will do it and I'll do the part of anybody else that can't do it. And so he set the whole. His name's Paul Edgerly. Great guy to this day. And the whole group, we were all in. And then it did work out, but, you know, it was scary. We don't do this for money. We do it for love at the Celtics. But, but that doesn't mean, you know, so you do, you do, you, you do everything you can. But that was scary.

[Young Nacho]

I can, I can imagine like growing up at that time and watching basketball and having you guys having Rondo and all those great players. Did you expect more championships from that team or was it like the one was good enough?

[Will Grossman]

We were close. Yeah, we had that three year run. Oh, wait, we were 66 and 16 and we beat the Lakers by 39 points in game six. Okay, that was, that was fun. Beating the Lakers. Badass. That was fun. My license plate on my car is 39.

[D.J. Wells]

Wow.

[Will Grossman]

Only. Only the late Kobe. And I know what that's for. You know that far. And Kobe was amazing. And then. Anyway, 09 was our better team. We started 27 and 2, and then we had injuries to KG and Rondo, but 09 might have been the best team. And then 2010, we were leading the finals 3 to 2 and then lost the last two. Perk got hurt or whatever. We lost on the road in la and in game seven, that was a very low point. So we had three good teams there.

[D.J. Wells]

That's interesting that you say that because a lot of people see Kendrick Perkins on TV and have different opinions about him. But if he's not hurt in 2010, y' all win that chip.

[Will Grossman]

We probably did. And I love Perk to this day. He wasn't invited to our parade last year. That is true. Because he'd been giving people a lot of shit, you know. And so I had family members of players saying, if that guy's in the parade, we're not in the parade. I said, well, that's, you know. Okay, you win.

[Young Nacho]

Yeah.

[D.J. Wells]

You should see what I try to get Jeff Tegan back in Gainesbridge. It's the same type of conversation. Oh, yeah.

[Young Nacho]

I'm not welcome in the Pacers facilities anymore, but it's all good.

[D.J. Wells]

For sure, man. We got a gift for you, though. We appreciate you pulling up. Shout out to the crowd, man. Make sure y' all rock out. Tommy John. Gotta get you some Tommy John here, sir.

[Will Grossman]

Oh, thank you.

[D.J. Wells]

Absolutely, sir. Man. One time for Tommy John. We appreciate y' all. Today's hot take ball handling matters. Pause. Yeah. On the court, but I'm talking about in your draws. Keep your balls handled. But Tommy John underwear. Tommy John has up to four times more stretch than competing brand. Soft breathable fabrics. Man, tap in with Tommy John, man. Take care of yourself.

[Young Nacho]

Right.

[Will Grossman]

Presented with underwear before and it's a big thrill. So thank you very much.

[Bishop B]

Make sure you check the size on them, too. I don't think they. One size fits what you say.

[D.J. Wells]

Yeah, usually they throw the draws on. Say that the other way around. But you know what I'm saying. We here anyway. For sure.

[Bishop B]

Now, I wanted to talk to you about the tequila brand. Sakuro.

[D.J. Wells]

Yes, sir.

[Bishop B]

How did that start? How did that come about?

[Will Grossman]

My wife is going to be thrilled. She runs it, but it's with. It was. I met Amelia 10 years ago. Okay. And on the labor committee talking to the players. It was me and Michael Jordan. And Jeannie Buss of the Lakers and Wes Edens. And the four of us are very good friends for years and years and years. Ownership in the league, we all do stick together. You know, I said, you got to meet Amelia. Let's go out. So we all went out. By the end of that dinner and then another dinner, they're like, she's unbelievable. And we're starting a tequila. So the five of us, that's the Cinco 5. An Oro for gold. And we've sold two and a half million bottles. We won 29 gold medals in spirits competitions, and we're going global.

[Bishop B]

That's dope.

[Will Grossman]

Yeah. But MJ is an amazing partner. Jeanie west and Amelia, they're amazing partners. Okay, cool. Thank you.

[D.J. Wells]

And that's interesting you say that, because our first time having Sakura was actually with him. He's the one that introduced us to that.

[Bishop B]

Yep.

[D.J. Wells]

The small world, for sure.

[Young Nacho]

We won the championship in 2021. And I celebrated with a bottle the whole night. I walked around west like, hey, you like it?

[D.J. Wells]

I love it.

[Will Grossman]

We put those in the Lakers locker room, I think, right?

[Young Nacho]

Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. And we. We drank it all night. But I had it at my house. I thought I was cool. I thought I knew I had the inside scoop.

[Will Grossman]

Thank you.

[D.J. Wells]

Yeah.

[Bishop B]

We never seen that bottle before. That's a beautiful bottle.

[Will Grossman]

So you don't wear your ring at the podcast, man.

[D.J. Wells]

Nothing says summer like long days in the sun, clutch plays, and a few bets on the game. All with DraftKings sportsbook.

[Bishop B]

It's summertime, so you know the baseball best are getting hot. And DraftKings sportsbook has you covered with live betting, home run props, all odd boost and more.

[Young Nacho]

Here's something special for you first timers. New customers bet $5 and get $150 in bonus bets.

[D.J. Wells]

Download the DraftKings sportsbook app and use that promo code, Club520. That's right, code Club520. For new customers, you get 150 of bonus bets instantly. We bet just five bucks on your draft keys.

[Bishop B]

The crown is yours.

[Will Grossman]

Gambling problem.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Call 1-800-GAMBLER in New York. Call 877-8-HOPE NY or text hopeny467369 In Connecticut, help is available for problem gambling. Call 887777 or visit ccpg.org Please play responsibly on behalf of Boot Hill Casino and Resort in Kansas, 21 and over. Age and eligibility varies by jurisdiction. Boyd and Ontario. Bonus bets expire 168 hours after issuance. For additional terms and responsible gaming resources, see DKNG Co Audio. Hey, it's Ryan Seacrest for Albertsons and safeway now through July 15th. Stock up on all your favorite personal care brands and earn four times points to use on later purchases. For discounts on groceries or gas, shop in store or online for items like Pantene Shampoo, Old Spice, Total Body Deodorant, Tampax Pearl, Venus Razors, Head and Shoulder Shampoo, Olay Body Wash and Pantene conditioner and earn 4 times points. Hurry before these deals are gone. Offer ends July 15th. Restrictions apply. Offers may vary. Visit albertsons or safeway.com for more details.

[Advertiser 1]

Hey, so we all make mistakes, but owning up is the right thing to do. You know a Degree Cool Rust deodorant? Well, last year they changed the formula and it did not go well with their fans.

[Advertiser 2]

Degree's whole thing is it turns up the sweat and odor protection when you turn up the effort. And good thing it does, because Cool Rush fans really turned up the effort to bring back the original formula. One guy even started an online petition and degree listened.

[Advertiser 1]

They admitted they effed up and are bringing the original Cool Rush back. And it's exactly how you remember it. Cool, crisp and fresh. It's back in Walmart, Target and other stores now for under $4.

[Advertiser 2]

There's a reason why it's been the number one men's Annie purse Sprint for the last decade. It's the same reason why people were not happy when it changed. So if you never tried it, it might be a good time to see what the fuss is about.

[Advertiser 1]

Head to your local Walmart or Target to try the OG degree cool rush for yourself.

[Will Grossman]

Get in the zone.

[Riley Herbs]

AutoZone welcome to AutoZone.

[Will Grossman]

What are you working on today? Hey, that's the spirit. Now we're celebrating free with a free STP oil filter when you buy 5 quarts of oil and free Duralast brake pads when you buy two rotors like always. Free battery testing, charging and recycling at every store. Celebrate free at AutoZone now through July 28th.

[Riley Herbs]

Get in the zone Auto Zone restrictions apply.

[D.J. Wells]

Lo's nose July 4th savings are worth celebrating. Get up to 40% off. Select major appliances and get an additional 10% off two or more. Select major appliances. Hurry. These July 4th deals won't last long. Lowe's we help you save. Valid through 7 9. Selection varies by location while supplies last. See lowe's.com for more details.

[Colin Cowherd]

Visit your nearby Lowe's on Colorado street in Kennewick.

[Young Nacho]

Nah, I don't want to Stun on them like that, man. You know what I mean? I don't wear it.

[Bishop B]

His ain't that big, though.

[Young Nacho]

It is. I got more diamonds a month.

[D.J. Wells]

Oh.

[Will Grossman]

Well, just wait till next year.

[Bishop B]

Hey, did you think I was going to win this year? Did you think I was going to win this year?

[Will Grossman]

Yeah, I thought we had a chance. The Knicks played real well, to be honest, and then obviously JT got hurt, but they were already beating us before then, so that was a down year. It was a little disappointing, but I. I don't know who's going to win Game 7. The Pacers are coming. It's in OKC. It's probably OKC, but good job, Pacers.

[D.J. Wells]

Oh, I know who going. You see the hat right there? You know, the vibes. Pacers in seven. It's up.

[Young Nacho]

JT told me that was the hardest series they had on the championship run against the Pacers. He was like.

[Will Grossman]

It was.

[Young Nacho]

Yeah, that's what it was.

[Will Grossman]

And we sweat. Oh, let me check on the inside of it says right here, because people were dissing us about like, who'd you beat? I'm like, on the inside.

[Bishop B]

Yeah.

[Will Grossman]

It says Boston 4, Miami won, Boston 4, Cleveland won, Boston 4, Indiana nothing. Boston 4, Dallas won.

[D.J. Wells]

Yeah, G. Nothing is crazy. You ain't had to have that on.

[Will Grossman]

I mean, it's not like we just snuck by. We're 16 and three. The hardest was the Pacers. Even though it was four nothing. Every one of those games we were behind.

[Young Nacho]

Yeah.

[Will Grossman]

And we had to come back. And they were a very, very good team.

[D.J. Wells]

Yeah, most definitely. Now, I want to ask, obviously, the league changes so much. You look at what's going on now with the way free agency is going, how did you adjust as an owner with the different periods, with the new payments of contracts, the way people wanted to go to different destinations, just the way the league changes. How do you adjust like that? And does it start with you? Do you funnel down to the rest of your organization? Do you go get people who fit the changes that the league is going towards?

[Will Grossman]

Yeah, I mean, we don't have a team where the players put it together. You know, our 08 team was Danny putting it together with a brilliant move. We waited three years to get Garnett and got ready for it and built up people like Al Jefferson and Tony Allen. We love both of them, but could include them in trades. Not Tony, actually, I was wrong. But Al as the centerpiece for seven to one for Garnett. And so we built up for that for three years. That Was Danny. We put, you know, he. And we put the team together and then we made the trade in 13 and had those draft picks. We picked Jalen and Jason. But we did have a period of time. Kyrie came and he thought maybe he could put something together and was thinking about making calls, and then he ended up just feeling like he would try to do that somewhere else. And I respect that. We're friends to this day, so I don't know if we ever adjusted to it or not. Okay, this one, I mean, I don't have a problem with it, but the team. Well, first of all, there's no league without the players. And people are not playing to come see me, obviously. They're playing to see. See the players. So they get to do what they want to do, and we're all benefiting from them.

[Bishop B]

I want to ask how important is that for like a owner and player, like, relationship?

[Will Grossman]

It's amazing. I mean, first of all, the guys know that the owners in general, and in our case, for sure, all my whole group, we're in it to win it. Yeah. They don't have any doubts about that. And we, you know, we try to do everything first class. Not everything always works out right or whatever, but we are. We legitimately are friends. And then when you win together, you're friends for life.

[Bishop B]

Nah, for sure. For sure.

[Will Grossman]

I mean, it's just. I see KG, of all people. Yeah. And he's like running across the room, or I'm running across the room. We see shaq when he's DJing and he'll stop and bring my wife up onto the, like, the deck, you know, I mean, it's just. It's magic.

[Bishop B]

Nah, for sure.

[Will Grossman]

Love those guys.

[D.J. Wells]

What's up?

[Young Nacho]

Nah, it's amazing. The organization is first class. When I was there, I always made fun of. Cause I came from Atlanta. And not saying it's not first class, but when I first got to Atlanta, we didn't have a practice facility. Really nice. They have. They have those things now. But when I got to Boston, I'm like, yeah, it's a little different. The vibe here is different. We getting. It was Covid time. So we were getting the meals and all the extra stuff you guys were giving us. And I was just like, I see why people fall in love with being here. Amazing organization.

[Will Grossman]

Well, there's a big history. We're just trying to keep it going, you know, and thank you for being there.

[Young Nacho]

No, thank you for show.

[D.J. Wells]

I have a question for you. When you see things happen, like the Luca Trade, Right. Catches everybody off guard.

[Will Grossman]

What the fuck?

[D.J. Wells]

I was going to ask what was your initial reaction to that? And it's just like, do y' all hop in the owners group chat like, hey, yo, what's really going on? Because like, y' all really kind of set the tone of how everybody has to conduct business going forward.

[Will Grossman]

Well, I, you know, I hate to. I don't want to really pick on anybody, but I'll give you an honest answer. I think if we traded somebody of that level, which we're not, but if we were, we would call everybody and it would probably leak out, but you just gotta take it and then you get five picks back or six. Yeah, I mean, Bain got four picks in a swap.

[Young Nacho]

Yeah.

[Will Grossman]

And they got like one pick or maybe two. And I. So I mean, it just feels like, you know, but they now they're ending up with Cooper Flag. But it's not. It's not all connected really that way. I don't know. I just. I guess I feel like it. It must have been painful for them to do it. So they didn't want to let everybody know about it, probably. And I guess it's kind of human nature, I guess. Yeah.

[D.J. Wells]

I just wonder because, like, you probably open up your phone like everybody else did at one o' clock in the morning, said, what is this intel like?

[Will Grossman]

Yeah, if I was awake at one o' clock in the morning, I would have opened up.

[D.J. Wells]

I'm a grown up most definitely now. Again, I'm a grown up.

[Young Nacho]

But he's in a rock band.

[D.J. Wells]

Yeah, I was gonna say, you up late, working man.

[Will Grossman]

I know, I know. I might have been up.

[D.J. Wells]

Now we look across the league and some of the recent news that just took place. The Lakers, obviously, big news of them transition from different ownership. Again, something else that sets the tone in the NBA. We see something like that, especially with the Bus family, long ownership of the team. Not saying what's your thoughts behind it because obviously you're a good friends, business partners with her. But what's your initial reaction to like, really, like this is going on now?

[Will Grossman]

Yeah, I mean, my family had a right after 20 years to ask me to sell for. On behalf of all of us. And so we are as a. Celtics just got sold. We're going to. I'm going to sell my piece in 2028. Others are going out now in 2025. So the Celtics have new ownership coming in. It was a really good group and that must have given Jeannie an idea. And she's so much of a good Friend that when Amelia and I got married, Jeannie presided at the wedding.

[Young Nacho]

Oh.

[Will Grossman]

And she literally said, wick, if you don't marry her, I will. Which is funny because Jeannie's straight. But anyway, so we're close friends. So the Celtics and Lakers are changing hands. We got a new media deal and a whole new future for the league, and a lot of people really want to come in. Nobody buys these things for money, especially at these prices. Yeah, you can't say you're gonna get rich off of it. You gotta be one of those people and then say, this is the time of my life. And I can tell you personally, it's been the time of my life for sure.

[D.J. Wells]

Now, is there any moves that you regret not doing?

[Will Grossman]

Oh, I'm sure. Well, I do regret trading Perk, to be honest. That was one that we all thought about, and there was discussions around the table, and I got to sign off on the trades as the governor lead owner. And, you know, I feel like I got kind of talked into it, but I did sign off. It's not. You know, we were all in it, and it. You know, Jeff Green came back, and then he had a health problem, and, you know, nothing against Jeff Green, and he just won a championship, you know, so, you know. But anyway, our team didn't feel the same after Perk was gone, so not everything goes perfect. Not that everything went perfect this year. You know, JT lost his Achilles. So, yeah, you just. You go for the highs and you get through the lows, and you. You have a brotherhood that lasts for life.

[D.J. Wells]

Most definitely. Obviously, we in New York, you know, the Knicks moved on from tibs in that situation. They saw how that unfolded in that situation. How do you go about when you have to make a decision like that? You go to everybody and think about it, because I know it's easy to overreact in a moment, right?

[Will Grossman]

Not always.

[D.J. Wells]

Not always.

[Will Grossman]

I had one coach who told me. I'm not going to mention who, but one coach who told me years and years ago, we see you working out in the gym at our old practice facility. You wouldn't have liked it. This wasn't very nice. And I'm like, yeah, I'm working out. I'm working out at 8am and the guys come in at, like, 10, you know, or whatever. And he goes, well, it's players only. That's the NBA way. And I'm like, but there's nobody here, and it's my gym, and I'm gonna work out. And the next day, I come in and there's a sign says players only.

[Bishop B]

Oh.

[Will Grossman]

So that guy ended up departing.

[Young Nacho]

I was like, he won't be coach of air.

[Will Grossman]

I didn't ask anybody. That's the thing you just. Now, that's probably a jerky thing to say in that way, but when you're running something and there's something just going the complete opposite direction.

[Bishop B]

Yeah.

[Will Grossman]

I. I don't put up with it. Then I take the blame if it doesn't work.

[D.J. Wells]

Yeah.

[Will Grossman]

And I get the ring if it does. Actually, the trophy's in my living room.

[Young Nacho]

Wow.

[Will Grossman]

Both of them. So you're going to take the trophy. You also got to take the blame.

[Bishop B]

Yeah.

[Will Grossman]

All right. Anyway, I like that. Can I ask you any Celtics fans out there? I saw a few. Hey, I got a. All right, look, I'll meet you. I'll meet you over here at the end if you want to take a picture with the ring. All right.

[Young Nacho]

That's fire. How did you know Brad Stevens was, like, the perfect guy? Because when I was there, Brad was the coach, and he was kind of telling me he was going to try to transition to something else. How did you know he was the perfect guy to move up to the front office? Because the teams he's putting together are amazing.

[Will Grossman]

That happened real quick. I didn't know. But Danny came to me and said, look, I'm going to move on for medical just because of my stage of life. And I'm like, danny, I don't want you to leave. But all right. And so I knew I had to get somebody. I called in Brad, between the lead owner and the coach is the general manager, and we got all three be on the same page. You got to be able to say yes, no, yes, no, but agree at the end and not have a fight about it. Just agree and respect. I said, we need a partner, and what's the short list? And Brad led me off this short list of six GM candidates. And I'm like, I don't want that guy. I don't want that guy. And I don't know the other four. We don't have anybody here. And then I looked at him. I looked at him and said, brad, it might be you, because you've been here eight years, nine years, and you are a partner. And, you know, putting together teams at Butler and you've worked with Danny here. This could actually be you. He did not ask for the job. I said, I think it's you. Said, I got to think about it. I said, tell me tomorrow morning. Came in the next morning, said, I accept. That was a lucky guess.

[Young Nacho]

Man.

[Bishop B]

He did an amazing job, man.

[Young Nacho]

He's doing a great job.

[Will Grossman]

Executive of the year last year and then. He's an amazing guy. Just I just hung up with him. Now we're coming onto that time of the year with the draft and the trades, so I just was talking to him about half hour ago for sure.

[D.J. Wells]

Most definitely, man. Shout out to Brad Stevens, Indiana legend, man. What makes the noise? Mr. Gruesome man, we appreciate you man.

[Will Grossman]

Thanks guys. Cheers. The volume.

[Advertiser 1]

Okay, have you heard about this? Last year, Degree changed the formula for their Cool Rush deodorant. Their fans rebelled and wanted the old SIM back and Degree Listen, that doesn't happen often.

[Advertiser 2]

They admitted that they effed up and are bringing the original Cool Rush scent back and it's exactly how you remember it. Cool, crisp and fresh. There's a reason it's the number one men's antiperspirant and is back in Walmart, Target and other stores for under $4.

[Advertiser 1]

So try it and see what the fuss is about. Head to your local stores to try the OG Cool Rush for yourself.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Hey, it's Ryan Seacrest for Albertsons and Safeway. It's Oral Care Month, which means you can earn four times points on all your favorite oral care brands. Now through July 15th. Shop in store or online for items like Colgate Toothpaste, Listerine Mouthwash, Crest Mouthwash or Toothpaste Sensodyne Toothpaste, hello, Toothpaste or Gum Flossers and earn four times points. Points can be redeemed for future discounts on gas or groceries. Offer ends July 15th. Restrictions apply. Offers may vary. Visit albertsons or safeway.com for more details.

[Podcast Host]

Every business has an AMB PayPal open is the platform designed to help you grow into yours with business loans so you can expand and access to hundreds of millions of PayPal customers worldwide. And your customers can pay all the ways they want with PayPal, Venmo pay later and all major cards so you can focus on scaling up when it's time to get growing. There's one platform for all business PayPal open grow today at paypalopen.com loans subject to approval in available locations.

[Young Nacho]

Here at the Almond Joy Factory, where tropical vibes abound, we use soft, fresh.

[Will Grossman]

Tasting coconut, the crunchiest almonds, and delicious chocolate candy.

[Young Nacho]

Ah, but do you know what our most important ingredient is? Sometimes you feel like a nut, sometimes you don't. Almond Joy's got nuts and something even.

[D.J. Wells]

Way better than that.

[Young Nacho]

Yes, Almond Joy is made with almonds and your heart.

[Podcast Host]

This is an I Heart podcast.