The Los Angeles Lakers have been sold to an ownership group led by Bob Iger and Josh Kushner for a record price of over $12 billion, marking a significant change in stewardship for one of the NBA's most storied franchises [1][2]. This transaction comes less than a year after Mark Walter acquired the team for a $10 billion valuation in October 2025, highlighting a rapid and substantial increase in the team's value [1][2].
Kushner and Iger, both lifelong NBA fans, expressed their honor at becoming stewards of the Lakers and emphasized their respect for the leadership of Jerry and Jeanie Buss. They stated their long-term commitment to building on the team's foundation, competing at the highest level, and serving the fans and the city of Los Angeles [1][2]. Mark Walter, who remains CEO of Guggenheim Partners and majority owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, described his tenure as Lakers owner as an extraordinary investment and expressed gratitude to the Buss family, players, and staff [1].
The Lakers, who have won 17 championships with their most recent in 2020, are entering a new era. NBA superstar LeBron James, the league's all-time leading scorer, ended his eight-year tenure with the Lakers this summer and signed a two-year, $8 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers [1][2]. The team is now headlined by six-time NBA All-Star Luka Dončić, who led the league with 33.5 points per game last season [2]. Last season, the Lakers finished fourth in the Western Conference and were eliminated in the playoffs by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the semifinals [2].
The sale sets a new benchmark for NBA franchise valuations and signals a shift in the Lakers' leadership and strategic direction. There is no mention of immediate market reactions or analyst opinions in the sources, but the record-setting price and high-profile new owners suggest significant interest and expectations for the franchise's future [1][2].
CONCLUSION
The acquisition of the Los Angeles Lakers by Bob Iger and Josh Kushner for $12 billion marks a historic moment for the franchise and the NBA. With a new ownership group and a star-led roster, the Lakers are poised for a new chapter, while the record sale price underscores the team's enduring value and appeal.