End of an Era: Los Angeles Lakers Sold in Record-Breaking $10 Billion Deal

Los Angeles, CA – June 18, 2025 – The iconic Los Angeles Lakers, one of the most storied franchises in professional sports, are set to change hands in a historic agreement that values the team at an unprecedented $10 billion. The Buss family, who have held controlling interest in the Lakers for 46 years, have reportedly reached a deal to sell a majority stake to Mark Walter, CEO of TWG Global and primary owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

This monumental sale shatters all previous records for a professional sports franchise acquisition, surpassing the $6.1 billion sale of the Boston Celtics earlier this year. The valuation underscores the immense global appeal, rich history, and enduring brand power of the Lakers, which has long been a crown jewel in the NBA.

The Buss family’s ownership dates back to 1979 when Dr. Jerry Buss purchased the Lakers, along with the NHL’s Los Angeles Kings and The Forum arena, for $67.5 million. Under his visionary leadership and subsequently that of his daughter, Jeanie Buss, the Lakers became synonymous with “Showtime” basketball, attracting a pantheon of Hall of Fame talent including Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O’Neal, and more recently, LeBron James and Luka Dončić. The franchise has amassed 11 NBA championships during the Buss era, firmly cementing its place in basketball lore.

While the majority stake will transfer to Mark Walter, current controlling owner Jeanie Buss is expected to remain as the team’s governor, ensuring a degree of continuity and her continued representation of the franchise in league matters. Walter, a prominent figure in the sports world with extensive holdings including the Dodgers, Premier League club Chelsea, and the Professional Women’s Hockey League, has been a minority owner of the Lakers since 2021. His existing stake and demonstrated commitment to winning with the Dodgers, who have secured two World Series titles and 11 NL West divisional titles under his ownership, make him a logical successor in the eyes of many.

Lakers legend Magic Johnson, a close confidante of Jeanie Buss and business partner of Walter, expressed his strong approval of the deal. “Mark Walter is the best choice and will be the best caretaker of the Laker brand,” Johnson posted on social media, praising Walter’s competitive drive and willingness to invest in success.

The sale marks the end of an extraordinary era for the Buss family, who transformed the Lakers into a global sports phenomenon. For the NBA, this record-setting transaction further solidifies the league’s booming financial landscape and may set a new benchmark for future franchise valuations, particularly as expansion talks continue to gain momentum. The transition to Mark Walter’s leadership signals a new chapter for the Lakers, one that promises continued investment and a relentless pursuit of championship glory.