The historic deal sees the iconic NBA franchise change hands less than a year after Mark Walter acquired a majority stake in October 2025.
The Los Angeles Lakers, one of basketball's most iconic teams, are reportedly set to be sold for an unprecedented $12.5 billion. This record-breaking deal will see Josh Kushner, brother of former US President Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, and former Disney chief executive Bob Iger acquire the controlling interest in the NBA franchise.
This massive transaction comes less than a year after Mark Walter took a majority stake in the Lakers. Walter's previous acquisition from the Buss family in October 2025 was valued at an estimated $10 billion, a record in itself at the time, unanimously approved by the NBA Board of Governors.
The change in ownership marks a significant moment for the Lakers, who have seen substantial shifts on and off the court recently, including the departure of superstar LeBron James. The new leadership aims to build on the team's storied legacy, according to reporting by BBC Sport - Basketball.
Who are the new LA Lakers owners?
Josh Kushner and Bob Iger are stepping in as the new stewards of the Los Angeles Lakers. Kushner, an American venture capitalist, is the founder of Thrive Eternal, a firm that was notably involved in discussions surrounding an aborted plan to sell stakes in FIFA competitions to private investors.
Iger brings extensive leadership experience from his long tenure as Disney's chief executive. In a joint statement, Kushner and Iger expressed their deep honor, saying, "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." They added their commitment to building on the foundation set by Jerry and Jeanie Buss, competing at the highest level, and serving the team, its fans, and the city of Los Angeles.
Mark Walter's record-breaking Lakers sale
Mark Walter, who also owns a stake in the LA Dodgers with Todd Boehly, acquired his majority share of the Lakers from the Buss family in October 2025 for an estimated $10 billion (£7.45bn). His brief ownership tenure has now concluded with another record-setting sale. Walter reflected on his time with the team, stating, "Owning the Los Angeles Lakers has been one of the great honors of my life."
Walter further commented that while it was an "extraordinary investment," he would carry with him the sense of community, the fans, and a city that treats the team as family. He expressed gratitude to Jeanie Buss, the Buss family, players, and staff, believing the Lakers' best is still ahead for Los Angeles.
Lakers ownership history and star players
The Lakers have a rich ownership history, notably with Jerry Buss, who purchased the team in 1979 for $67.5 million (£50m). This original deal also included the Los Angeles Kings hockey team and the Kia Forum arena. After Buss's passing in 2013, ownership was passed to his six children via a Trust before the agreement with Mark Walter.
On the court, the Lakers boast 17 NBA titles, trailing only the Boston Celtics' record of 18. The team has recently undergone significant roster changes, with LeBron James, the NBA's highest points scorer, departing for the Philadelphia 76ers in the summer. This left Luka Doncic, who arrived from the Dallas Mavericks in February 2025, as the team's main star.
Doncic welcomed the ownership change on social media, saying, "Being a Laker means everything to me, and I'm excited to get back on the court and bring a championship to LA." He acknowledged the recent transformations, adding, "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." Doncic looks forward to meeting Josh Kushner and Bob Iger to start building something special together.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much did the Los Angeles Lakers sell for?
The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly being sold for a record-breaking $12.5 billion (£9.3bn), making it the most expensive sports franchise sale in history.
Who are the new owners of the LA Lakers?
The controlling interest in the Los Angeles Lakers is being acquired by Josh Kushner, an American venture capitalist, and Bob Iger, the former chief executive of Disney.
What is the history of Lakers ownership?
The Lakers were notably owned by Jerry Buss, who purchased the team in 1979 for $67.5 million. After his death in 2013, ownership passed to his six children before a majority stake was sold to Mark Walter in October 2025 for an estimated $10 billion, which has now been sold to Kushner and Iger.
How many NBA titles do the Lakers have?
The Los Angeles Lakers have won 17 NBA titles, placing them second in the league's history, just one championship shy of the Boston Celtics' record of 18.