Lakers Sold to Mark Walter for Record $10 Billion

The Los Angeles Lakers have been sold to billionaire investor Mark Walter for a record $10 billion, making it the highest price ever paid for a controlling interest in a North American sports team. The NBA Board of Governors unanimously approved the sale, with Jeanie Buss and the Buss family retaining a minority stake and leadership roles. Walter, who also owns the Los Angeles Dodgers and the WNBA's Los Angeles Sparks, brings extensive sports ownership experience and aims to maintain the Lakers' legacy of excellence and championship success. The sale reflects broader trends in rising sports franchise valuations driven by global brand strength, lucrative media rights, and international expansion. The Buss family decided to sell to capitalize on this premium valuation after nearly 50 years of ownership since Jerry Buss purchased the team in 1979. Walter's acquisition solidifies his dominant presence in Southern California sports and positions him as a major figure in global sports business.