How Will the Lakers Move Forward After $12.5B Blockbuster Sale?

The Los Angeles Lakers recently underwent a historic sale for over $12.5 billion, with venture capitalist Joshua Kushner and former Disney CEO Bob Iger taking ownership. The Lakers' new owners were revealed in an article from ESPN, with Kushner and Iger being drawn together through their shared passion for basketball. Dave McMenamin, a Lakers reporter, praised Iger's genuine love for the sport in a recent appearance on the ESPN Radio show Sedano & Kap.

While Bob Iger is known for his basketball acumen, Joshua Kushner is recognized as a savvy businessman, having previously acquired a minority stake in the Memphis Grizzlies and later sold his stake in 2025 to purchase a minority stake in the Miami Heat. The Lakers' front office will continue to be led by Jeanie Buss, who retained her position in the deal.

The timing of the sale is intriguing, given recent reports of an FBI investigation into former majority owner Mark Walter. Walter is accused of diverting unreported billion-dollar loans into other business ventures, which he allegedly owes at least $16 billion. Walter has reportedly been in talks with investors to raise money to pay down his loans, which may have prompted the sale to the new ownership group.

Despite the unexpected changes in team ownership, Lakers superstar Luka Dončić expressed his excitement about joining the franchise, stating, "Being a Laker means everything to me, and I’m excited to get back on the court and bring a championship to LA." The Lakers are preparing for the 2026-27 season with a revamped roster, aiming to avoid any distractions during this pivotal moment in the franchise's history.