The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly set to be sold for $12.5 billion (£9.3bn), potentially making it the most expensive sports franchise sale in history.
Record-breaking deal
The NBA franchise is expected to change ownership less than a year after Mark Walter acquired a majority stake from the Buss family in a deal reportedly valued at around $10 billion.
New ownership group
Josh Kushner, brother of Jared Kushner, and former Disney chief executive Bob Iger are reportedly leading the group buying the controlling interest in the Lakers.
NBA approval
Walter’s acquisition was unanimously approved by the NBA Board of Governors in October 2025. The latest deal would once again reshape ownership of one of basketball’s most valuable and recognisable franchises.
Commitment to the Lakers
Kushner and Iger said they were honoured by the opportunity to become stewards of the Lakers and expressed their intention to build on the foundation established by the Buss family.
Focus on success
The incoming owners said their long-term goal is to keep the Lakers competing at the highest level while serving the team’s fans and the wider Los Angeles community.
A historic franchise
The Lakers are among the most successful teams in NBA history, with a global fan base and a legacy built around some of basketball’s biggest stars. A $12.5 billion valuation would further underline the enormous commercial value of the franchise.
