In a landmark moment for sports business, billionaire Mark Walter has taken majority ownership of the Los Angeles Lakers in a historic $10 billion deal—setting a new record for professional team sales in the United States.
Leadership Continuity with Jeanie Buss
Despite the shift in majority ownership, Jeanie Buss will retain a 15% stake and continue as the team’s governor—affirmed by NBA rules requiring a minimum share for that role. Both the team and Walter’s ownership group have confirmed she will remain “for at least a number of years,” maintaining stability in both basketball and business operations.
From $67.5M to $10B: Exponential Legacy
The Lakers’ evolution—from Jerry Buss’s $67.5 million purchase in 1979 to today’s $10 billion valuation—highlights the explosive rise in value of premier sports franchises. Driven by 11 NBA championships and the NBA’s massive $77 billion media rights agreement, the Lakers stand as a prime example of how elite teams are becoming global commercial powerhouses.
Walter’s Sports Empire Grows
Mark Walter, already the owner of the Dodgers, Sparks, part-owner of Chelsea FC, and co-founder of a Cadillac Formula 1 team, solidifies his sports empire with this move. Known for transforming the Dodgers into a championship-winning franchise, Walter brings both capital and vision to Los Angeles.
Stability Built into the Deal
The agreement ensures operational consistency:
- Jeanie Buss retains full control as team governor
- NBA regulations affirm her leadership based on ownership stake
- Walter’s investment signals long-term support in analytics, facilities, and fan engagement—mirroring his strategy in MLB
