13. Phoenix Suns – $1 billion
We touchdown to the first billion with the Phoenix Suns. The team’s current value is indeed $1 billion, 10% higher than last season’s. It comes from two major sources, NBA and market, splitting around $300 million each.
Robert Sarver bought the Suns for $404 million in 2004. During last season, the team generated $154 million of revenue and $21.8 million of operating income. This is actually lower than what the previous team has earned.
One of the reasons why is probably the amount of debt the team owes. Compared to its value, the debt is 18%. That number is the highest among all teams on our list.
In spite of those, the Phoenix Suns’ arena just got a new sponsor, Talking Stick, replacing the previous one.
