Los Angeles Lakers Sold to Bob Iger and Josh Kushner for $12.5 Billion

Washington DC, United States Aug 13, 2026 ALN: The Los Angeles Lakers, one of the most storied franchises in the history of professional basketball, have officially changed hands once again. The announcement made on Wednesday revealed that the team has been sold to former Disney CEO Bob Iger and billionaire investor Josh Kushner for a staggering $12.5 billion, setting a new benchmark for sports franchise sales.

This sale marks a significant moment in the landscape of professional sports ownership, particularly considering the rapid increase in franchise valuations over the past decade. Just less than a year ago, American businessman Mark Walter purchased the Lakers from the Buss family for $10 billion. Walter's acquisition at that time was also historic, as it was the highest price ever paid for a sports franchise. Walter is not only known for his ownership of the Lakers but also for holding stakes in other major sports franchises, including MLB’s Los Angeles Dodgers, WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks, and the Premier League’s Chelsea FC.

The Lakers have long been a symbol of success in the NBA, boasting a rich history that includes numerous championships and a roster filled with legendary players such as Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Kobe Bryant, and Shaquille O'Neal. Their legacy extends beyond the court, as the franchise has become a cultural icon in Los Angeles and around the world. The sale to Iger and Kushner not only reflects the financial muscle of the NBA but also the ongoing evolution of sports ownership in an era where media and entertainment converge with athletics.

In their joint statement, Kushner and Iger expressed their respect and admiration for the Buss family, particularly Jerry and Jeanie Buss, who have played pivotal roles in the Lakers' success over the years. "As lifelong NBA fans, we are deeply honored for the opportunity to become stewards of the Los Angeles Lakers, one of the most iconic sports franchises in the world. We have immense respect for the leadership and vision of Jerry and Jeanie Buss. Our long-term commitment is to build on that foundation, compete at the highest level, and serve this extraordinary team, its fans, and the city of Los Angeles,” the pair stated.

The sale is particularly noteworthy in light of the ongoing legal challenges faced by Walter, as his companies are currently under investigation by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and U.S. prosecutors for allegations of tax fraud. This scrutiny may have prompted a quicker sale than anticipated, as ownership of a high-profile team like the Lakers can be complicated by legal issues. The sale still requires approval from the NBA’s board of governors, which typically reviews ownership changes to ensure compliance with league regulations.

Moreover, the move to acquire the Lakers aligns with Kushner and Iger's previous interests in expanding their influence in the sports world. Reports indicate that the duo was initially exploring the possibility of expanding the NBA franchise footprint to Las Vegas. However, instead of pursuing a new franchise, they opted to make a record-breaking offer for Walter’s controlling stake in the Lakers, reflecting their commitment to one of the league's most prestigious teams.

This is not Kushner’s first venture into sports ownership. Recently, his investment firm, Thrive Eternal, attempted to acquire a stake in FIFA World Cup tournaments for an estimated $4.2 billion. However, that proposal faced significant backlash from fans and various football federations, leading FIFA President Gianni Infantino to withdraw the offer. This incident underscores the complexities and challenges associated with high-stakes sports investments, particularly in a global context. The backlash also highlights the importance of public perception in sports ownership, where fan engagement and sentiment can significantly influence business decisions.

Both Iger and Kushner bring a wealth of experience and connections to their new ownership role. Iger, who served as the CEO of The Walt Disney Company for 15 years, is known for his strategic vision and ability to navigate complex business landscapes. Under his leadership, Disney expanded its portfolio significantly, acquiring major entities such as Pixar, Marvel, and Lucasfilm. His involvement in sports is further solidified by his ownership stake in Angel City FC, a team in the National Women’s Soccer League, which reflects a growing interest in women's sports.

Kushner, on the other hand, has a background in real estate and investment, having previously held a minority ownership stake in the NBA’s Memphis Grizzlies. Currently, he also holds a minority stake in the Miami Heat. His experience in the sports industry, combined with Iger's extensive media and entertainment background, positions them uniquely to leverage the Lakers' brand and explore new opportunities for growth and engagement. Their combined expertise may also open doors for innovative marketing strategies and partnerships that could enhance the Lakers' visibility and profitability.

The implications of this sale extend beyond just the financial aspect. The Lakers, with their rich history and large fanbase, are not just a sports team; they are a cultural institution in Los Angeles and beyond. The new ownership will likely bring fresh perspectives on how to engage with fans, enhance the game-day experience, and expand the franchise's global reach. The team has a legacy of attracting star players and generating significant media attention, which could be leveraged further under the new ownership. In a league where branding and fan loyalty are paramount, the ability to connect with fans on multiple levels will be crucial for the Lakers’ sustained success.

As the NBA continues to evolve, with increasing revenues from broadcasting rights and sponsorships, the sale of the Lakers at this unprecedented price reflects the league's growth and the value placed on premium franchises. The Lakers have a storied history, with numerous championships and legendary players, making them one of the most recognized teams globally. The new owners will need to navigate the expectations that come with such a prestigious brand, ensuring that the team's competitive edge is maintained while also fostering a strong relationship with the community. This balance between competitiveness and community engagement will be a key focus area as they take on their new roles.

In conclusion, the sale of the Los Angeles Lakers to Bob Iger and Josh Kushner for $12.5 billion marks a significant milestone in sports ownership. As the new owners prepare to take the reins, the focus will be on upholding the legacy of the franchise while looking towards innovative strategies to enhance its standing in the modern sports landscape. The upcoming season will be closely watched, not only for the team's performance on the court but also for how the new ownership approaches the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The Lakers' fanbase, known for their passionate support, will undoubtedly be eager to see how this change in ownership translates into the team's future direction and success.