The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly being sold for a record-shattering $12.5 billion (approximately €10.4 billion), according to a report by ESPN published on Wednesday. If approved, the transaction will eclipse the previous global benchmark for a sports franchise, which was set just a year prior when billionaire Mark Walter acquired the historic NBA club from the Buss family for $10 billion (about €8.7 billion).
According to the reports, the prospective new owners slated to take over the Western Conference franchise are former Disney Chief Executive Officer Bob Iger and investor Joshua Kushner. The deal represents another staggering valuation leap for a team that had remained under the ownership of the Buss family since 1979, prior to Walter’s short-lived stint.
Record-Breaking Valuation and Regulatory Hurdles Ahead
At $12.5 billion, the proposed purchase price stands as the highest ever paid for any professional sports team globally, spanning North American major leagues and international soccer clubs alike. However, the historic transaction is not yet finalized. According to sports industry reports, the sale remains subject to formal approval by the NBA’s Board of Governors.
New Ownership Group Outlines Long-Term Vision
In a joint public statement reported by media outlets, the incoming buyers expressed their reverence for the franchise’s storied legacy and local ties. “As lebenslange NBA-Fans fühlen wir uns zutiefst geehrt, die Verantwortung für die Los Angeles Lakers, eines der legendärsten Sportteams der Welt, übernehmen zu dürfen,” Iger and Kushner stated, acknowledging the previous leadership. “Wir haben großen Respekt vor der Führungsstärke und der Weitsicht von Jerry und Jeanie Buss.”
The prospective co-owners outlined clear athletic and community objectives for the organization moving forward. “Unser langfristiges Ziel ist es, auf diesem Fundament aufzubauen, auf höchstem Niveau zu spielen und diesem außergewöhnlichen Team, seinen Fans und der Stadt Los Angeles zu dienen,” the statement continued.
Background of the Prospective Buyers
Bob Iger brings decades of corporate governance and entertainment industry leadership from his tenure leading The Walt Disney Company. Joshua Kushner, founder of the investment firm Thrive Capital, adds deep financial tech sector experience to the partnership. Joshua is the brother of Jared Kushner, who serves as the son-in-law of United States President Donald Trump.
Kushner’s background also includes prominent visibility in international business circles. Media reports noted that Kushner’s investment vehicle was previously positioned to play a central role in proposed commercial ventures involving FIFA under President Gianni Infantino—efforts aimed at restructuring tournament commercial rights through a proposed subsidiary before those plans ultimately stalled.
What Comes Next for the Franchise
With the multi-billion-dollar agreement now established between the parties, attention turns to the league office. The NBA Board of Governors must review and vote to authorize the ownership transfer before Iger and Kushner can officially assume control of the organization. League officials have not yet announced a specific timeline for the formal review meeting.
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