Josh Kushner and Bob Iger are reportedly acquiring the Los Angeles Lakers for $12 billion, according to sources familiar with the negotiations. The deal, if finalized, would set a new record for the highest price ever paid for a sports franchise, surpassing the previous record set by the sale of the Washington Commanders in 2023.
Record-Breaking Deal in the Works
The reported purchase price of $12 billion would more than double the Lakers' estimated value of $6.4 billion, as calculated by Forbes in 2024. The current owners, the Buss family, have controlled the team since 1979, when Jerry Buss purchased it for $67.5 million. The family has been exploring a sale for several months, with Kushner and Iger emerging as the leading bidders.
Kushner, a prominent investor and founder of Thrive Capital, is the brother of Jared Kushner, former senior advisor to Donald Trump. Iger, the CEO of Disney, has been a longtime sports enthusiast and previously served on the board of the Lakers' regional sports network. Both are expected to bring significant financial resources and business acumen to the franchise.
Impact on the Lakers and the NBA
The sale would mark a significant shift in the Lakers' ownership structure, which has been in the Buss family for over four decades. The new owners are expected to maintain the team's operations in Los Angeles, with plans to invest in the roster and facilities. The deal is subject to approval by the NBA Board of Governors, which is expected to vote on the sale in the coming months.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver declined to comment on the reported sale, but sources indicate that the league is closely monitoring the process. The record price reflects the NBA's strong financial health and the Lakers' status as one of the most valuable franchises in sports. The sale could also have implications for future team valuations, as the Lakers' $12 billion price tag sets a new benchmark for the industry.
Reactions and Next Steps
Fans and analysts have reacted with a mix of excitement and caution. Some have expressed concerns about the involvement of Kushner, given his family's political ties, while others have welcomed the potential investment in the team. The Buss family has not made an official statement, but sources say they are committed to ensuring a smooth transition.
The deal is expected to close by the end of the year, pending league approval. If completed, it would make Kushner and Iger the principal owners of one of the most iconic franchises in American sports, with a legacy that includes 17 NBA championships and a global fan base.
