American businessman, Lakers owner, philanthropist
Bob Iger and Josh Kushner have agreed to buy the Los Angeles Lakers from Mark Walter in a transaction valuing the franchise at about $12.5 billion. The sale has been announced this week, requires approval from the NBA Board of Governors and is subject to due diligence and Kushners divestment of a Miami Heat stake.
The Buss siblings are contesting the sale of the Lakers while Joey and Jesse Buss have secured a minority stake in the San Diego Padres. Jeanie Buss argues the sale is void, citing fiduciary concerns. The ownership shift unfolds as the Padres deal brackets a broader family-dynasty moment in Southern California sports.
Buss siblings vote to sell Lakers stake; Jeanie Buss seeks court order to block the sale and preserve her governance role. The dispute centers on a 17.8% family stake valued at about $12.5 billion, with legal fights looming over fiduciary duties and 2017 court orders.
The Lakers have seen a surge in value and ticket prices as a new ownership group takes control, with plans to grow to a $30 billion franchise while expanding media rights, sponsorships, and global reach.