In a blockbuster deal that’s shaking up the world of sports ownership, the Los Angeles Lakers have officially been sold at a record-breaking $10 billion valuation—the largest in U.S. sports history.
The iconic NBA franchise, once purchased for a mere $67.5 million by Dr. Jerry Buss in 1979, is now majority-owned by billionaire investor Mark Walter, who also controls the L.A. Dodgers and Chelsea FC. And the Buss family? They’re walking away with billions—literally.
Let’s break down the jaw-dropping numbers, legacy, and what this means for the future of one of the most legendary teams in basketball.
💰 The Billion-Dollar Breakdown: Who Got What
According to insider reports, the Buss family sold 48% of their 66% stake to Mark Walter, netting $6.15 billion in cash. But here’s the kicker—they still retained 18%, making sure they stay part of the Lakers legacy.
Here’s how it plays out:
- In 2021, Mark Walter bought a 27% stake for $1.35 billion at a $4.8B valuation.
- In 2025, he paid $6.15 billion to acquire another 48%, pushing his ownership to 75%.
- The Buss family keeps an 18% stake, worth about $1.8 billion on paper.
- Other minority owners continue to hold the remaining 7%.
Each of Jerry Buss’s six children—including Jeanie Buss, the team’s governor—reportedly walked away with $1.025 billion in cash plus an individual 3% ownership stake valued at around $300 million.
🏀 From Real Estate to “Showtime” to Global Sports Power
The Lakers’ story is inseparable from the Buss family—and it all began with a bold real estate play in the 1960s.
💼 Dr. Jerry Buss: From Chemistry Ph.D. to Property Mogul
- Jerry Buss earned his Ph.D. at just 24, but quickly left academia for Los Angeles real estate.
- Partnering with Frank Mariani, he created Mariani-Buss Associates, investing in undervalued apartment buildings across L.A.
- By the late ’70s, they owned 700+ income-producing properties—fueling Jerry’s next big move.
🏆 Buying the Lakers (And the Forum) for $67.5 Million
In 1979, Buss stunned the sports world by purchasing:
- The Lakers
- The L.A. Kings
- The Forum arena
- Additional real estate
At the time, it was the most expensive sports franchise deal ever.
The gamble paid off.
🌟 Showtime Era and Beyond: Turning the Lakers into an Empire
Under Buss’s visionary leadership:
- Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar electrified fans
- The “Showtime” Lakers became a must-see Hollywood experience
- Celebrities packed courtside seats, and the team won 10 NBA championships under his ownership
Buss transformed the Lakers into a global brand, combining sports and entertainment like never before.
“He didn’t just buy a team—he built a dynasty,” said one longtime NBA exec.
👑 Jeanie Buss: Taking the Reins—and Keeping a Seat at the Table
After Jerry’s passing in 2013, his 66% stake was divided equally among his six children. Jeanie Buss took over as team governor and lead representative on the NBA Board of Governors.
But the transition wasn’t smooth:
- From 2013 to 2017, all six siblings had shared control
- In 2017, Jeanie fought off an attempted takeover by brother Johnny Buss
- She emerged with full control over operations, leading the Lakers to another title in 2020
As part of the 2025 sale, Jeanie will remain the franchise governor, ensuring a Buss remains visible in the Lakers front office.
🌍 Mark Walter: The New King of L.A. Sports
Mark Walter, CEO of TWG Global and co-owner of the Dodgers and Chelsea FC, is now one of the most powerful figures in global sports.
This $10 billion deal:
- Cements his 75% ownership of the Lakers
- Consolidates his influence in baseball, basketball, and international soccer
- Breaks the record for largest franchise valuation in U.S. history
It also signals a new era of ownership—one where sports teams operate as global media empires, not just athletic organizations.
“Walter is assembling a sports portfolio that rivals anyone in the world,” said a sports business insider.
🧮 The Math Behind the $10 Billion Sale
Let’s recap the ownership math:
| Owner | Stake | Value at $10B | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mark Walter | 75% | $7.5B | Acquired 48% in 2025 |
| Buss Family | 18% | $1.8B | Retained |
| Minority Shareholders | 7% | $700M | Retained |
🟨 Total Buss family cashout in 2025: $6.15B
🟨 Each Buss sibling’s cash payout: $1.025B
🟨 Each retains a 3% stake worth $300M
🏆 The Lakers Legacy Continues
Even with new majority ownership, the Lakers remain a family-rooted dynasty—with Jeanie Buss still representing the franchise at the league level.
The Buss name is embedded in the team’s DNA, and fans can rest easy knowing their influence isn’t disappearing.
But one thing is clear: This is a new chapter.
And for the Buss siblings, that billion-dollar cashout marks the ultimate payoff for decades of loyalty, legacy, and leadership.
💬 Your Turn
What do you think about the Lakers’ $10 billion sale?
Should more sports dynasties cash out while valuations soar?
Drop your thoughts below, and don’t miss the latest power moves in celebrity sports ownership—only on The Pop Radar (TPR).
