Buss Family to Sell Lakers for Record $10 Billion to Mark Walter

In a landmark transaction poised to reshape the landscape of professional sports, the Buss family has reached an agreement to sell the Los Angeles Lakers to financier Mark Walter for a staggering valuation of $10 billion, as reported by multiple league sources on June 18, 2025. This sale not only sets a new record for North American sports franchises but also marks a significant shift in the ownership dynamics of the iconic NBA team, renowned for its rich history and cultural impact.

The impending sale, which is still awaiting finalization, could elevate the Lakers' total valuation to $12 billion, reflecting a substantial increase from the $6.1 billion valuation of the Boston Celtics, which was sold earlier in March 2025. The sale is expected to enhance the Lakers' competitive edge in the NBA, while also influencing the operational strategies of the Los Angeles Dodgers, another team owned by Walter.

Jeanie Buss, the current governor of the Lakers and daughter of the late Jerry Buss, will retain her leadership position following the sale. Jerry Buss acquired the Lakers in 1979 for approximately $68 million, transforming the franchise into a powerhouse that has since garnered 17 NBA championships, second only to the Celtics.

Mark Walter, 65, serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Guggenheim Partners, a global financial services firm managing over $325 billion in assets. His investment group first acquired a 27% stake in the Lakers in 2021, which included a right of first negotiation for a full purchase. Walter is also recognized for spearheading the Dodgers' acquisition in 2012 for $2 billion, a move that revitalized the franchise and led to multiple postseason appearances and two World Series titles.

Magic Johnson, a Lakers legend and part of the ownership group for the Dodgers, expressed his enthusiasm regarding the sale. "Laker fans should be ecstatic. Mark is driven by winning and excellence, and he will invest the necessary resources to achieve success," Johnson stated in a recent post on social media.

As the Lakers prepare for this new chapter under Walter's ownership, key players like LeBron James and Luka Dončić are expected to remain integral to the team's future. James, at 40 years old and nearing the end of his illustrious career, appears comfortable with the transition, while Dončić, 26, is eligible for a significant contract extension.

The Lakers have historically been more conservative in spending on coaches and front-office executives compared to other franchises, often leading to questions about their operational strategies. With Walter at the helm, sources anticipate a more aggressive financial approach, allowing the Lakers to fully capitalize on their storied brand and large market presence.

Walter’s investment in the Lakers follows an impressive trajectory with the Dodgers, where he has consistently increased revenues and player investments, including a recent acquisition of Japanese superstar Shohei Ohtani for a 10-year, $700 million deal. His approach to team management and investment could signal a new era for the Lakers as they aim to reclaim their status as a dominant force in the NBA.

As the sports community watches these developments unfold, the implications of this sale extend beyond mere financial metrics. It raises questions about the evolving nature of sports ownership, investment strategies in professional athletics, and the future trajectory of one of the most successful franchises in sports history. The Lakers, under Walter's stewardship, may soon redefine expectations within the NBA and beyond.