Bob Iger, Josh Kushner Seek Lakers Investors Starting at $250 Million as Deal Moves Forward

Bob Iger and Josh Kushner are actively seeking investors to contribute at least $250 million towards their planned acquisition of the Los Angeles Lakers, with the potential to raise significantly more capital. Despite some reports suggesting the deal may be at risk of failing to close, sources familiar with the transaction are confident in its progress toward completion.

The prospective owners have offered minority stakes of $250 million to $300 million, with some investors anticipated to invest even larger sums. The deal, which would value the team at a record $12.5 billion, is expected to close within the next few months. Former Disney CEO Bob Iger would take a minority ownership role to oversee day-to-day operations, while Josh Kushner, founder of Thrive Capital, is expected to become the Lakers' majority owner upon closing.

The acquisition would represent another significant move into professional sports for Iger, following his recent investment in the National Women’s Soccer League's Angel City FC. The deal awaits approval from the NBA's board of governors and is also subject to a legal dispute over the remaining 17.8% stake owned by the Buss family, which Jeanie Buss and her siblings are contesting but will not impact the Kushner-Iger transaction.