Los Angeles, CA – In a landmark deal reshaping the landscape of professional sports ownership, the Buss family has finalized an agreement to sell a majority stake in the Los Angeles Lakers to Mark Walter, CEO and chairman of TWG Global, for a reported $10 billion. This valuation marks the highest price ever paid for a U.S. Professional sports franchise, signaling the continued financial strength and global appeal of the NBA.
The agreement, first reported in June 2025, ensures the Buss family will retain a minority share of approximately 15% in the team for a period of time. Crucially, Jeanie Buss will remain the Lakers’ governor and continue to oversee the team’s operations for “at least a number of years,” a condition guaranteed as part of the deal and fully supported by Walter, according to sources familiar with the negotiations. ESPN detailed these terms in their initial reporting.
A Recent Era for the Lakers
Mark Walter’s acquisition builds upon an existing investment in the Lakers. He initially became a stakeholder in 2021, purchasing Phil Anschutz’s 26% share and securing a right of first refusal for the majority ownership. This strategic move positioned Walter to lead the acquisition when the Buss family decided to explore a sale. TWG Global’s portfolio already includes significant holdings in other prominent sports franchises, including the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Los Angeles Sparks, Chelsea Football Club of the English Premier League, and teams within the Professional Women’s Hockey League. Walter also owns several auto racing teams through TWG Motorsports, including Cadillac Formula 1. ESPN highlighted the breadth of Walter’s sports investments.
The sale brings to a close the Buss family’s 47-year ownership of the Lakers, a period defined by unparalleled success on the court. Jerry Buss acquired the franchise in 1979 for $67.5 million, a transaction that also included the Los Angeles Kings and The Forum. Under the Buss family’s stewardship, the Lakers have won 11 NBA championships since 1980 – the most of any team in the league during that span. This legacy of excellence is a key factor in the team’s soaring valuation and continued global popularity.
The NBA’s Growing Valuation and Potential Expansion
The $10 billion price tag for the Lakers underscores the dramatic increase in the value of NBA franchises in recent years. This surge in valuation is driven by several factors, including the league’s expanding global fanbase, lucrative television contracts, and the increasing revenue generated from digital media and merchandising. The Lakers, in particular, benefit from their iconic brand recognition and loyal following, making them one of the most valuable sports franchises in the world.
The sale also fuels speculation about the NBA’s potential expansion beyond its current 30 teams. While the league has not officially announced any plans for expansion, the record-breaking valuation of the Lakers, coupled with the growing interest in basketball in international markets, suggests that expansion is a viable possibility. Las Vegas, with its rapidly growing sports scene and state-of-the-art facilities, is frequently mentioned as a leading candidate for a potential expansion franchise. The source material alludes to Las Vegas as a potential expansion location.
Expansion Considerations and Challenges
Expanding the NBA would present both opportunities and challenges for the league. On the one hand, expansion could generate significant revenue through franchise fees, media rights deals, and increased merchandise sales. It would also allow the NBA to tap into new markets and grow its global fanbase. However, expansion could also dilute the talent pool, potentially lowering the overall quality of play. The league would necessitate to carefully consider the logistical challenges of adding new teams, such as scheduling, travel, and facility availability.
Any potential expansion would likely require a thorough evaluation of candidate cities, including their market size, economic stability, and fan base. The NBA would also need to address issues related to revenue sharing, collective bargaining agreements, and the overall competitive balance of the league. The league has not publicly commented on specific expansion plans, but the financial success of franchises like the Lakers suggests that expansion is a topic of ongoing discussion among team owners and league officials.
What This Means for the Future of the Lakers
Despite the change in ownership, the future of the Lakers appears stable under Jeanie Buss’ continued leadership. Walter’s commitment to maintaining Buss’ role as governor provides continuity and ensures that the team’s long-term vision remains intact. His extensive experience in sports ownership and his financial resources could also provide the Lakers with the capital needed to invest in player development, facility upgrades, and marketing initiatives.
The transition of ownership is expected to be seamless, with minimal disruption to the team’s operations. The Lakers are currently focused on building a competitive roster and contending for championships. Walter’s acquisition is unlikely to alter those goals, as he has expressed a strong desire to support the team’s pursuit of excellence. The Lakers’ fans can anticipate a continued commitment to winning and a sustained presence as one of the NBA’s premier franchises.
The details surrounding the sale were further discussed in a YouTube video published in January 2026, providing additional context to the transaction.
Mark Walter’s Vision for the Lakers
Mark Walter, through the Lakers’ official website, expressed his honor in becoming a majority owner. The Lakers official website quoted Walter stating, “Few teams carry the legacy and global influence of the Lakers, and it’s a privilege to work alongside Jeanie Buss as we maintain that excellence and set the future.” This statement underscores his commitment to preserving the Lakers’ rich history while also investing in the team’s future success.
The acquisition by Mark Walter represents a significant moment in the history of the Los Angeles Lakers and the NBA as a whole. The record-breaking valuation of the franchise reflects the league’s growing popularity and financial strength. As the NBA continues to evolve, the Lakers are poised to remain a dominant force on and off the court, thanks to the vision and leadership of both Jeanie Buss and Mark Walter.
The next key development to watch will be the Lakers’ performance in the upcoming NBA season and any potential announcements regarding the league’s long-term strategic plans, including potential expansion initiatives. We encourage our readers to share their thoughts on this landmark deal and its implications for the future of the NBA in the comments below.