The Los Angeles Lakers, one of the most successful and popular basketball teams in the world, are about to be sold in a massive deal worth ₹86,000 crore (around $10 billion). This historic sale marks a major shift in the world of sports ownership and would make the Lakers the most valuable sports team ever sold.
Known for their rich history, global fanbase, and iconic players, the Lakers have long been one of the NBA’s most recognized franchises,and now, they’re entering a brand new chapter. Here’s everything you need to know:
Who is Buying the LA Lakers?
The buyer is Mark Walter, a billionaire businessman and co-owner of the LA Dodgers baseball team. He is also part-owner of Chelsea Football Club in the English Premier League.
Mark Walter, who already holds a minority stake of about 20% in the Lakers, is now set to purchase the controlling ownership from the Buss family, who have been in charge of the team since 1979.
Who Are the Buss Family?
The Buss family has been in charge of the Lakers for the past 46 years. Under their leadership, the Lakers have won 11 NBA championships with legendary players like Magic Johnson, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James.
The team is currently led by Jeanie Buss, daughter of the late Jerry Buss. She will still remain involved as the team’s governor and keep around 15% ownership even after the sale.
Also read: Top 7 Richest Sports Leagues in the World Ranked by Revenue (2025 Update)
Why Is This Deal So Big?
The Lakers are one of the most valuable sports teams in the world. Here’s why:
- They have millions of fans worldwide.
- The team earns huge money from TV deals, merchandise, and sponsorships.
- They have a rich history and strong brand value.
This deal, valued at ₹86,000 crore ($10 billion), would be the largest ever for any sports team, beating the previous record set by the sale of the Washington Commanders (NFL) for around $6 billion.
What Will Change?
Although ownership is changing hands, some things will stay the same:
- Jeanie Buss will remain actively involved in managing the team.
- The Lakers name, logo, and legacy will remain.
- The new ownership may bring more money and new strategies to help the team succeed.
Experts believe Mark Walter will invest heavily in improving the team’s performance, just like he did with the Dodgers.
What About the Players?
There’s no direct impact on current players yet. However:
- LeBron James is still part of the team and may play a role in the future ownership.
- Younger stars like Luka Doncic or new talent may benefit from better facilities and management.
- The team could aim for a strong rebuild and future championships under new leadership.
Conclusion
This deal is a major moment not just for the Lakers, but for all of professional sports. It shows how valuable sports teams have become in today’s world, where global fanbases and media rights bring in billions. With new leadership and big money backing them, the Lakers are entering a new era, one that could shape the future of sports business and set new standards for how teams are managed and marketed. Fans can expect more investment, stronger performance, and possibly more championship titles in the future.
Written by Kinjal Walantra
