LA Lakers to be sold in record $12.5bn deal
Lakers Set for Historic $12.5 Billion Sale
Ninoda.com – The Los Angeles Lakers are preparing for a landmark transaction valued at approximately $12.5 billion, which would establish a new benchmark for sports franchise valuations. This massive deal comes less than twelve months after Mark Walter secured a controlling position within the storied NBA organization.
Leading the acquisition are Josh Kushner, nephew of US President Donald Trump through his marriage to Ivanka Trump, alongside Bob Iger, the former head of Disney. Together, these two prominent figures will assume control of one of professional sports' most recognizable brands.
Walter's Previous Record-Breaking Purchase
Walter originally acquired his substantial ownership portion from the Buss family for an estimated $10 billion, setting a prior record at the time. The NBA Board of Governors unanimously endorsed this initial transaction during October 2025. Additionally, Walter maintains an ownership interest in the LA Dodgers alongside Todd Boehly.
"As lifelong NBA fans, we are deeply honoured 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. 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."
A Legacy Built Over Decades
Jerry Buss originally purchased the Lakers in 1979 for $67.5 million, a transaction that also encompassed the Los Angeles Kings hockey franchise and a local arena currently known as the Kia Forum. Following his passing in 2013, ownership transferred to his six children through a family trust before Walter's acquisition was finalized.
"Owning the Los Angeles Lakers has been one of the great honors of my life," said Walter. "It has been an extraordinary investment, but what I will carry with me is the community, the fans, and a city that treats this team as family."
"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."
Team Achievements and Leadership Transition
The Lakers currently hold 17 NBA championships, sitting just one title behind the Boston Celtics' all-time record of 18. Meanwhile, Kushner has navigated recent scrutiny related to FIFA president Gianni Infantino and a failed initiative to sell competition stakes to private investors. His venture capital company, Thrive Eternal, was slated to head the investor consortium for the FIFA Forward Enterprise proposal.
On the court, the Lakers experienced significant roster changes this past summer when 41-year-old LeBron James departed for the Philadelphia 76ers. James, the NBA's all-time leading scorer, left Luka Doncic as the franchise's primary star. Doncic joined from the Dallas Mavericks in February 2025 and expressed enthusiasm about the ownership transition.
"Being a Laker means everything to me, and I'm excited to get back on the court and bring a championship to LA," he shared via social media. "I've gotten used to big changes over these last few years, but I know that no matter what, there is no limit to the potential of this iconic franchise."
"I look forward to meeting Josh and Bob so we can get to work building something special in LA together."
Related Reading
Frequently Asked Questions
What is LA Lakers to be sold in record?LA Lakers to be sold in record is the main topic of this guide. The article explains the context, practical details, and next steps readers should understand.
Why does LA Lakers to be sold in record matter?LA Lakers to be sold in record matters because readers are looking for a useful answer, not just a short summary. Good content should match search intent and help them decide what to do next.