By In a groundbreaking deal that’s making waves across the sports world, billionaire investor Mark Walter has acquired a majority stake in the Los Angeles Lakers from the Buss family in a record-setting $10 billion transaction. The sale, announced this week, marks the largest acquisition in the history of professional sports, eclipsing the Boston Celtics’ $6.1 billion sale earlier this year.
Mark Walter, already a minority owner, now holds majority control of the Lakers, solidifying his influence across Los Angeles’ sports landscape. Walter, who also owns the MLB’s Los Angeles Dodgers, WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks, and has stakes in Chelsea FC and a new Formula 1 team, brings a powerful portfolio and proven championship pedigree.
Despite the monumental sale, Jeanie Buss will retain a 15% minority stake and continue in her role as team governor. Her leadership, especially through the Lakers’ 2020 championship season, remains a symbol of stability and continuity during a time of transformation.
The Lakers’ meteoric rise in value—from $67.5 million in 1979 to $10 billion today—highlights their unparalleled global brand. Legends like Magic Johnson, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James have helped shape the Lakers into more than a team—they are a global sports dynasty.
NBA’s soaring global revenues and upcoming $77 billion media rights deal further fuel this valuation. The deal does not include Crypto.com Arena, which remains under AEG ownership.
As the Lakers turn the page, the legacy of the Buss family and the vision of Mark Walter converge to chart a promising future. With fresh capital, a diverse ownership background, and Buss’s continued influence, the Lakers are poised to enter a new golden era.