The Portland Trail Blazers have new ownership, and one of the key figures stepping into the franchise is Dr. Richard A. Chaifetz, Chairman of Chicago-based Chaifetz Group.
Chaifetz Group announced today that Dr. Chaifetz has partnered with a group led by businessman Tom Dundon to complete the acquisition of the NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers franchise. The deal officially closed on March 31, 2026.
Under the new structure, Dr. Chaifetz joins as Co-Owner and Executive Partner. He will sit on the franchise’s Board of Directors and Executive Committee and will serve as Head of the Executive Hiring Committee.
The ownership group is led by Tom Dundon and includes Alternate Governors Marc Zahr, Stan Middleman, Andrew Cherng, and Sheel Tyle. Additional members of the new ownership group are Marc Grandisson, Nayel Nassar, Jennifer Gates, Taavet Hinrikus, and Dan Zilberman.
In a statement released by Chaifetz Group, Dr. Chaifetz expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity:
“I’m thrilled to join Tom Dundon and our exceptional group of partners,” said Richard A. Chaifetz, Chairman of Chaifetz Group. “The group’s commitment to basketball — and being the best on and off the court — will be second to none. I look forward to building on the great tradition of the Trail Blazers organization.”
The announcement includes an aerial view of the Moda Center packed with fans and the Trail Blazers in action — a fitting backdrop for what the new owners describe as a partnership focused on sustained excellence both on the court and in the community.
The acquisition marks a significant shift for the long-time NBA franchise, bringing together a diverse group of investors with deep experience in business, sports, and philanthropy. Chaifetz Group, known for its leadership in healthcare and behavioral services, now adds professional basketball to its portfolio through its chairman’s new role.
Further details on the transaction terms and any planned operational changes were not disclosed in today’s announcement.
Dr. Richard A. Chaifetz Joins Tom Dundon-Led Group as Co-Owner of the Portland Trail Blazers
