The Los Angeles Lakers have not been sold for 18 trillion won, nor has the franchise been acquired by Donald Trump’s brother-in-law. Recent viral reports circulating online misconstrued foreign currency translations and corporate ties, creating widespread confusion regarding the ownership status of the historic NBA franchise.
According to official NBA ownership records and verified financial disclosures, the controlling stake of the Los Angeles Lakers remains with the Buss family, who have held majority ownership of the franchise since 1979. Dr. Jerry Buss purchased the team in a landmark transaction that also included the Los Angeles Kings and the Los Angeles Forum, and family members—led by controlling owner and president Jeanie Buss—retain their operational control.
Understanding the Multi-Billion-Dollar Valuations
The misconception regarding an 18 trillion won price tag—roughly equivalent to $13 billion to $14 billion USD depending on exchange rate fluctuations—stems from inflated internet speculation and misread sports business valuations. Forbes and other financial sports outlets regularly publish annual valuations for major sports franchises across the National Basketball Association and the National Football League.
While top-tier professional sports properties command unprecedented market values, no transaction has reached the 18-trillion-won threshold. According to official sports valuation lists, the Dallas Cowboys lead American professional sports valuations, followed closely by elite NBA and NFL franchises such as the Golden State Warriors, the Los Angeles Rams, and the New York Giants. The Golden State Warriors hold a valuation estimated near $11 billion, while high-ranking NFL properties like the LA Rams and New York Giants command valuations in the $10 billion range, according to verified financial reporting.
By comparison, basketball valuations continue to rise following historic media rights deals and global audience growth, but the Los Angeles Lakers have not changed hands. Speculation regarding buyers connected to political figures or corporate relatives has repeatedly surfaced on social media platforms, only to be debunked by official league filings and team statements.
The Buss Family Legacy and Current Operations
Jeanie Buss continues to guide the day-to-day operations of the franchise alongside general manager Rob Pelinka and senior basketball leadership. Under the current operational structure, the team is focused on competing within the Western Conference rather than navigating corporate buyouts.
The Buss family trust dictates the distribution of the controlling ownership stake among Dr. Jerry Buss’s children, ensuring continuity for the storied franchise. League rules require strict vetting and a formal majority vote by the NBA Board of Governors for any transfer of team control, a process that has not been initiated regarding the Lakers.
What Lies Ahead for the Franchise
The Los Angeles Lakers remain anchored at Crypto.com Arena in downtown Los Angeles, preparing for the ongoing NBA schedule under head coach JJ Redick and star players LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Fans and analysts tracking the franchise can monitor official team announcements and National Basketball Association media disclosures for verified updates on corporate partnerships, governance, and on-court schedules.
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