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Thursday 09/04/2026

Historic $10 Billion Sale of Los Angeles Lakers to Dodgers Owner Mark Walter

Mark Walter shaking hands with Jeanie Buss in front of Lakers logo
Marcus BlakeMarcus Blake

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The Los Angeles Lakers are set to be sold to Mark Walter for an estimated $10 billion, marking the most expensive sale of a US sports team.
  • The Buss family, who have owned the Lakers since 1979, will sell their majority stake, but Jeanie Buss will remain as the team's governor.
  • Mark Walter, already a minority owner, also owns the Los Angeles Dodgers and has various global sports investments.
  • The Lakers' sale surpasses previous record-breaking sports franchise sales, including the Boston Celtics and Washington Commanders.
  • The Lakers have won 11 NBA championships under Buss family ownership, with the team currently led by LeBron James.

In a landmark deal, the Los Angeles Lakers are poised to change hands in what is set to become the most expensive sale of a sports team in US history. Mark Walter, CEO of TWG Global and current minority owner of the Lakers, is set to acquire the majority stake from the Buss family for an estimated $10 billion. This transaction will eclipse previous record sales, including the Boston Celtics' $6.1 billion sale earlier this year.

A Legacy of Success

The Buss family has been synonymous with the Lakers since 1979 when Jerry Buss purchased the team for $67.5 million. Under their stewardship, the Lakers have become one of the most iconic franchises in sports, securing 11 NBA championships. Jeanie Buss, who took over as principal owner after Jerry Buss's passing in 2013, will continue as the team's governor following the sale.

Mark Walter's Expanding Sports Empire

Mark Walter, who also owns the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Los Angeles Sparks, has been a stakeholder in the Lakers since 2021. His acquisition of the majority stake reflects his growing influence in the sports world. Walter's investments extend globally, including interests in Chelsea Football Club and the Cadillac Formula 1 Team.

Implications for the NBA

This sale not only sets a new benchmark for sports franchise valuations but also signifies a new chapter for the Lakers, currently led by superstar LeBron James. The team, despite recent playoff eliminations, remains a powerhouse in the NBA, continuing to attract top talent and maintain a strong fan base.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The sale of the Los Angeles Lakers to Mark Walter could have significant implications for the NBA and the sports industry at large. With Walter's proven track record of success, as seen with the Dodgers' World Series win, there is potential for the Lakers to further solidify their status as a leading franchise. The deal may also influence future valuations and sales of sports teams, setting a precedent for billion-dollar transactions. As Jeanie Buss remains involved, the transition is likely to be smooth, ensuring continuity in leadership and preserving the team's storied legacy.