Buss Family Sells Majority Stake in Los Angeles Lakers to Mark Walter for $10 Billion

The Los Angeles Lakers, one of the most influential franchises in the NBA, has seen a significant change in ownership. The Buss family, who have held a majority stake in the team since its purchase by Jerry Buss in 1979, has agreed to sell 66% of the team to Mark Walter, CEO and chairman of TWG Global. This move comes as the team's valuation has skyrocketed, reaching $10 billion, fueled by its $400 million annual TV and streaming revenue and the global growth of the NBA. Jeanie Buss, the current principal owner and governor, will remain in her position.

Key Takeaways:

• The Buss family has sold a majority stake in the Los Angeles Lakers to Mark Walter for approximately $10 billion.
• The deal values the Lakers at $10 billion, surpassing the Boston Celtics' $6.1 billion sale in March 2025.
• The Buss family's 66% stake in the team suggests a payout of roughly $6.6 billion, although Mark Walter likely purchased a portion of this, not the full $10 billion.
• Jeanie Buss, the current principal owner and governor, will remain in her position after the sale.
• The Lakers' skyrocketing valuation is fueled by its $400 million annual TV and streaming revenue and the global growth of the NBA.
• The sale of the Lakers highlights the increasing financial appeal of NBA teams, with valuations soaring due to global growth and media deals.

Statistics:

• The Los Angeles Lakers have been valued at $10 billion.
• The Buss family's 66% stake in the team suggests a payout of roughly $6.6 billion.
• The Lakers' annual TV and streaming revenue is $400 million.
• The NBA team valuation has reached $7 billion, according to Forbes valuation in early 2025.
• The Boston Celtics were sold for $6.1 billion in March 2025.

Sources:

• ESPN
• Forbes
• Hindustan Times