Mark Walter Acquires Majority Stake in Lakers from Buss Family Trust

In a historic transition for the Los Angeles Lakers, controlling owner Mark Walter, alongside TWG Global, is set to acquire a majority ownership stake in the franchise from the Buss family trust. This monumental transaction, valuing the Lakers at approximately $10 billion, was confirmed by multiple sources close to the deal on June 18, 2025, marking a significant shift in the landscape of professional sports in Los Angeles.

The Lakers, renowned as one of the most successful franchises in NBA history, have been a family-run business since Jerry Buss purchased the team in 1979. Following Buss's death in 2013, control of the franchise was placed into a family trust, with his daughter Jeanie Buss serving as the governor. According to Jeanie Buss, she will continue to oversee the team under the new ownership structure, ensuring that the team's legacy and operational ethos remain intact. This arrangement is crucial, as the NBA mandates that all controlling owners must possess a minimum of 15% equity in the franchise to participate in league meetings.

The sale is particularly significant given the recent trends in NBA franchise valuations. For context, Bill Chisholm acquired the Boston Celtics for $6.1 billion in March 2025, while Mark Cuban sold the Dallas Mavericks for $3.5 billion in late 2023. Walter's acquisition of the Lakers not only solidifies his position as a key player in Los Angeles sports but also sets a precedent for future franchise transactions.

Walter, who became the controlling owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2012, has previously transformed the Dodgers into a Major League Baseball powerhouse, leading them to multiple playoff appearances and two World Series championships. His Guggenheim Baseball group revitalized the Dodgers after purchasing the team for $2 billion, turning a struggling franchise into a model of success through substantial investments in player development, facilities, and analytics.

"The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the most successful and admired franchises in sports history," stated Walter in a recent press release. "I have watched the organization grow under Jeanie’s leadership and couldn’t be more excited to partner with her and the entire management team. I am committed to supporting the franchise’s iconic status by continuing to bring together culture, community, and entertainment to Lakers’ fans."

The implications of this sale extend beyond just the Lakers organization. As Walter takes control, he brings with him a wealth of experience in sports management and a proven track record of success. His strategic vision may influence how the Lakers approach player acquisitions, fan engagement, and community involvement moving forward. Moreover, this sale reflects a broader trend in professional sports where ownership structures are increasingly professionalized, with affluent individuals and groups seeking to manage franchises as major business enterprises rather than family-owned operations.

This transition also comes at a time when the Lakers are navigating a competitive NBA landscape, having experienced a challenging postseason that raised questions about their roster's future. With Walter's leadership, there are expectations of renewed investment in talent and infrastructure that could potentially propel the Lakers back to championship contention.

As the deal progresses, observers will watch closely how this change in ownership affects both the Lakers' operations and the overall dynamics of Los Angeles sports. Walter's ability to balance the rich history of the Lakers with modern business practices will be pivotal in shaping the franchise's future.

In conclusion, the sale of the Lakers to Mark Walter and TWG Global signifies a new chapter in the franchise's storied history. This acquisition not only underscores the increasing monetary value of NBA franchises but also highlights the evolving nature of sports ownership in an era defined by both competition and commercial success.