BOSTON BOMBSHELL: Celtics, Jaylen Brown, and Wyc Grousbeck Top List of Boston’s Most Influential—Outranking Politicians, Power Brokers, and Even the Governor! Inside the Stunning Rise of Sports Power in the Hub

Boston, MA—In a city renowned for its political titans, academic giants, and tech innovators, it’s the Boston Celtics and their fearless leaders who have seized the top spot on Boston Magazine’s “150 Most Influential Bostonians” list for 2025. In a jaw-dropping turn, Celtics governor Wyc Grousbeck and the entire Celtics organization have been crowned No. 1—surpassing Governor Maura Healey, Mayor Michelle Wu, and a slew of business moguls. And just twenty spots down, Celtics superstar Jaylen Brown claims his own place among the city’s elite, not for his electrifying dunks, but for his revolution off the court.

A New Power Structure in Boston

For decades, Boston’s power rankings have read like a who’s who of Beacon Hill and Back Bay. But this year, the green-and-white wave has swept the city’s establishment off its feet. The Celtics’ historic 18th NBA championship banner and the high-stakes sale of the franchise have catapulted Wyc Grousbeck and the Celtics collective to the pinnacle of influence, according to Boston Magazine’s editors.

“It’s not just about basketball,” the magazine notes. “The Celtics have redefined what it means to lead in Boston—uniting the city, elevating social causes, and setting the tone for the next generation of leadership.”

How Did the Celtics Outrank the Governor?

The answer is a story of legacy, leadership, and a city hungry for unity. Wyc Grousbeck, who has helmed the Celtics for over two decades alongside his father Irving, co-owner Steve Pagliuca, team president Rich Gotham, and general manager Brad Stevens, orchestrated not only a return to championship glory but also a seamless, headline-grabbing transition in team ownership.

The sale of the Celtics—one of the most storied teams in sports—could have sparked chaos, but Grousbeck’s steady hand ensured a smooth shift, preserving the team’s culture and setting a new gold standard for sports franchises nationwide. “The victory meant something even more for team governor and lead owner Wyc Grousbeck,” Boston Magazine writes, “who’d spent the past two decades leading the Celtics alongside his father, Irving, co-owner Steve Pagliuca, team president Rich Gotham, general manager Brad Stevens, and many others.”

The Celtics’ 18th banner, tying them with the Lakers for most NBA titles, was more than a sports milestone—it was a civic event. The championship parade brought together Bostonians from every neighborhood and background, with Grousbeck and company hailed as the architects of a new Boston renaissance.

Jaylen Brown: From All-Star to Social Architect

But perhaps the most surprising entry on the list is Jaylen Brown, ranked No. 20, whose influence is being felt far beyond the TD Garden. While his on-court heroics are undeniable, it’s his off-court activism that has Boston Magazine—and the city itself—buzzing.

Brown’s 7uice Foundation has become a beacon of hope, funding youth programs, educational initiatives, and social justice campaigns across Boston. In a city still grappling with racial and economic divides, Brown’s launch of the Boston Xchange—a pioneering effort to narrow Boston’s racial wealth gap—has set a new standard for athlete activism.

“Jaylen Brown is building more than just a legacy in basketball,” says local community leader Angela Brooks. “He’s building bridges, creating opportunities, and challenging the status quo.”

The magazine notes that Brown’s influence is only growing, with his foundation’s programs reaching thousands of young Bostonians and his voice shaping public conversations on equity and inclusion.

A Changing of the Guard?

The shockwaves from the Celtics’ dominance on the list are already being felt in Boston’s corridors of power. Political insiders are openly wondering: Has the city’s center of gravity shifted from the State House to the Sportsplex?

“It’s unprecedented,” says political analyst Mark O’Malley. “For the Celtics to outrank the governor and mayor is a sign that Boston’s identity is evolving. Sports aren’t just entertainment—they’re a driving force for civic pride, unity, and even policy.”

Indeed, the Celtics’ influence now extends into philanthropy, education, and economic development. The team’s community programs, combined with Brown’s grassroots efforts, are shaping the city’s future in ways few could have imagined a decade ago.

The Secret Sauce: Celtics Culture

What’s behind this meteoric rise? Insiders point to the unique culture cultivated by Grousbeck and his leadership team—a blend of tradition, innovation, and relentless focus on community impact.

“Wyc’s vision was always bigger than basketball,” says Celtics president Rich Gotham. “He wanted the Celtics to be a force for good in Boston. That’s why we invest in local schools, support social justice, and make sure every kid in the city feels like they’re part of the Celtics family.”

That vision has paid off, with the Celtics now seen as more than just a team—they’re a movement.

A City United—For Now

The Celtics’ triumph on the court and in the city’s power rankings comes at a time when Boston is facing major challenges: rising inequality, political polarization, and a rapidly changing economy. For many, the Celtics’ example offers a blueprint for how sports, business, and community leaders can work together to build a better future.

But not everyone is celebrating. Critics warn that the cult of celebrity can distract from deeper issues, and some political leaders are quietly bristling at being overshadowed by athletes and team owners.

Still, for most Bostonians, the Celtics’ rise is a source of pride—and a sign that the city’s best days may still be ahead.

What’s Next for Boston’s New Power Players?

With a new ownership group at the helm and Jaylen Brown’s influence only growing, the Celtics are poised to shape Boston’s future for years to come. Insiders say the team is planning major new investments in youth sports, education, and economic development—initiatives that could cement their status as Boston’s most influential force.

As for Brown, sources say he’s exploring new partnerships with city leaders and business innovators, aiming to scale the impact of the Boston Xchange and 7uice Foundation to reach even more communities.

The Takeaway: More Than a Game

In a year of seismic change, the Celtics’ ascent to the top of Boston’s power list is more than a sports story—it’s a testament to the power of vision, leadership, and community. From Wyc Grousbeck’s boardroom to Jaylen Brown’s grassroots activism, the Celtics are showing that influence isn’t just about titles or trophies—it’s about making a lasting difference.

So as Boston Magazine’s rankings spark debate across the city, one thing is clear: In 2025, the heart of Boston beats green. And the world is watching.

Will the rest of Boston’s elite rise to the challenge—or will the Celtics’ reign inspire a new era of civic leadership? Only time will tell, but for now, the city’s most influential power brokers are wearing jerseys, not suits. And that’s a twist no one saw coming.