In a landmark moment for global sports, the Los Angeles Lakers—arguably the most storied franchise in the NBA—have been sold in a record-breaking $10 billion deal. The majority stake was acquired by billionaire investor Mark Walter, CEO of Guggenheim Partners, making this the most valuable sports franchise transaction in history, surpassing all previous NBA and international team sales.
Continuity at the Top: Jeanie Buss Stays On
Although ownership control now rests with Mark Walter, Jeanie Buss, daughter of the late Dr. Jerry Buss, will remain a cornerstone of the Lakers’ leadership. With a 15% minority stake, she continues as team governor, preserving the Buss family legacy while the franchise transitions into a new era.
A Legendary Franchise Turns the Page
The Lakers, originally based in Minneapolis before relocating to Los Angeles in 1960, have long stood as a symbol of basketball greatness. From Magic Johnson’s “Showtime” era to the dynasty built around Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal—and more recently, LeBron James and the 2020 championship—the franchise has claimed 17 NBA titles and cultivated a global fanbase unlike any other.
The Buss family took over in 1979, purchasing the Lakers for just $67.5 million. Over the decades, their stewardship transformed the team into a cultural and commercial juggernaut, with Jeanie Buss leading as team governor since 2013.
Mark Walter: A Visionary Sports Owner
Mark Walter brings an impressive track record in sports ownership. In addition to leading the MLB’s Los Angeles Dodgers, he holds ownership stakes in the WNBA’s Sparks, Premier League giant Chelsea FC, and an emerging Formula 1 team. Renowned for combining analytics-driven strategies with a winning culture, Walter’s leadership helped steer the Dodgers to World Series victories in 2020 and 2024.
With this acquisition, Walter aims to elevate the Lakers through business innovation while honoring their rich history.
The Lakers represent far more than just basketball—they’re a worldwide symbol of excellence,” Walter remarked. “It’s a true privilege to help shape their future.
Skyrocketing Valuation: A Testament to Global Appeal
Valued at $10 billion, the deal excludes the team’s home venue, Crypto.com Arena, which remains under AEG ownership. The staggering valuation reflects not just the Lakers’ championship pedigree but their global influence—fueled by the NBA’s new $77 billion media rights agreement and massive international audience.
The sale resets the benchmark for franchise valuations across all sports, eclipsing the Boston Celtics’ $6.1 billion transaction earlier this year.
A New Era: Blending Tradition with Transformation
Jeanie Buss’s continued leadership alongside Walter’s strategic oversight promises a balance between heritage and forward momentum. The partnership, officially sanctioned by the NBA, represents a rare dual-governance structure that is expected to benefit the franchise in several ways.
The Lakers are set to invest in:
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Elite player development systems
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Cutting-edge training and performance facilities
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Global community initiatives
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Digital transformation and fan engagement strategies across new international markets
As this historic deal closes, the Lakers are positioned to remain not just a powerhouse on the court—but a business model for the future of global sports.
