Done in a weekend - the $12.5bn LA Lakers sale that shocked the NBA
The Los Angeles Lakers' record $12.5bn (£9.3bn) sale was agreed in the space of a weekend, leaving the NBA world and fans in shock.
The Los Angeles Lakers clinched a record $12.5bn (£9.3bn) sale, leaving the NBA world stunned. The deal was finalized within a weekend, with Josh Kushner, brother of US President Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared, and former Disney CEO Bob Iger acquiring the team's controlling interest. This sale stands as the most expensive sports team sale ever reported, surpassing previous records including the $6.1bn (£4.5bn) valuation of the Boston Celtics and $4bn (£3bn) for the Phoenix Suns.
The Lakers, once valued at $10bn (£7.4bn) in June 2025, have undergone a significant transformation, with LeBron James retiring and Luka Doncic taking over as the team's star player. Despite facing an ongoing federal investigation, Kushner and Iger view the Lakers purchase as one of the greatest honors of their lives. The Lakers, currently in a period of transition, are eager to rebuild under new ownership, with Doncic expressing his excitement for a fresh start.
Basketball legend Earvin "Magic" Johnson praised the new owners, stating that they bring a championship mindset to Los Angeles.
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