The Los Angeles Lakers are making history again—not on the court, but in the boardroom. For the second time in just over a year, the iconic franchise is changing hands, and this time the price tag has shattered records.
According to ESPN's Ramona Shelburne, Josh Kushner and Bob Iger have reached an agreement to purchase the Lakers for a staggering $12 billion-plus. That eclipses the $10 billion Mark Walter paid just 14 months ago, making it the most expensive sports franchise sale in history.
The deal has sent shockwaves through the NBA and beyond, leaving fans and analysts scrambling to understand how a team could be sold twice in such a short span—and what it means for the future of one of basketball's most storied franchises.
A New Era in Los Angeles
Kushner, a tech and investment mogul, and Iger, the former Disney CEO, released a joint statement expressing their excitement and commitment.
"As lifelong NBA fans, we are deeply honored for the opportunity to become stewards of the Los Angeles Lakers, one of the most iconic sports franchises in the world. We have immense respect for the leadership and vision of Jerry and Jeanie Buss," they said. "Our long-term commitment is to build on that foundation, compete at the highest level, and serve this extraordinary team, its fans, and the city of Los Angeles."
Jeanie Buss, who remained as governor after Walter's purchase, may see her role change under the new ownership. While the statement praises the Buss family, it remains unclear whether she will continue to run day-to-day operations.
Walter's Brief Tenure
Mark Walter, who bought the Lakers in June 2025, also commented on the surprising turn of events.
"Owning the Los Angeles Lakers has been one of the great honors of my life—an extraordinary investment, but what I will carry with me is the community, the fans, and a city that treats this team as family," Walter said. "I am grateful to Jeanie Buss, the Buss family, the players, and the staff for welcoming me into this chapter. The Lakers belong to Los Angeles, and I have every confidence the best is still ahead."
Walter's tenure was brief, and the rapid sale has raised eyebrows. Some speculate financial pressures or behind-the-scenes turmoil, while others see it as a savvy business move in a booming sports market.
Fan Reaction: Shock and Skepticism
NBA fans took to social media to voice their disbelief. "Mark Walter must be in deep waters if he pivoted from the Lakers sale that fast," one fan tweeted. Another commented, "Jared Kushner bought the lakers. It's never enough." (Josh Kushner is the brother of Jared Kushner, but the two are not the same person.)
"This is insane," one fan declared. "Wow…. This is crazy. Something is up," added another.
The rapid turnover has also fueled comparisons to other recent blockbuster sports deals, like the Seahawks' record $9.6 billion sale, which closed earlier this year. That deal, too, raised questions about the soaring valuations of professional sports teams.
What's Next for the Lakers?
For now, the Lakers remain focused on the court, with stars like Luka Dončić leading the charge. But the ownership shakeup adds another layer of uncertainty to a franchise already navigating high expectations.
Will Kushner and Iger bring stability, or is this just the beginning of more upheaval? Only time will tell. One thing is certain: the Lakers are once again the center of the sports world, and the price of greatness has never been higher.
