The NBA Finals have left Brooklyn fans wondering what could have been if former Nets star Kyrie Irving had remained with the team. However, another potential game-changer in the Nets’ ownership decision was Celtics minority owner Stephen Pagliuca. Pagliuca, a New York native raised in New Jersey, was approached by the Nets in 2017 to become the controlling owner alongside Joe Tsai. This move could have had significant implications for both the Nets and the Celtics.
Pagliuca ultimately decided to remain with the Celtics, investing more capital in the franchise and also acquiring a stake in the Italian Serie A soccer team Atalanta. The decision to pass on the Nets ownership opportunity allowed Tsai to take control of the team, leading to a roller coaster ride for the franchise in the following years.
Pagliuca’s potential ownership of the Nets could have altered the course of the team, especially considering the success he has had with the Celtics, including a championship in 2008. His decision to focus on the Celtics and expand his ownership portfolio with other sports teams demonstrates his commitment to the organizations he is involved with.
While the Nets have had their share of challenges, including injuries to key players like Irving and Harden, the Celtics have maintained a more stable presence in the league. Pagliuca’s continued investment in the Celtics and other sports teams shows his dedication to the world of sports ownership.
As the Celtics lead the NBA Finals, and the Nets seek additional investment, fans are left to ponder the “What if?” scenario of Pagliuca taking over the Nets. His legacy in the sports ownership world continues to evolve, with his recent acquisitions and ongoing support of the Celtics reflecting his passion for the game. Despite the missed opportunity with the Nets, Pagliuca’s impact on the sports industry remains significant, leaving fans and analysts alike to speculate on the potential outcomes of a different ownership decision.
