Breaking news: Major Change in Los Angeles Lakers Ownership

In a surprising turn of events, the Buss family has reached an agreement to sell the majority ownership of the Los Angeles Lakers to Mark Walter, the CEO and chairman of TWG Global, a diversified holding company. This development was reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania on June 18, 2025. Jeanie Buss, a prominent figure in the organization and the daughter of the late owner Jerry Buss, will maintain her role as the team’s Governor following the sale.

The Buss Family Legacy

The Buss family has been synonymous with the Los Angeles Lakers since Jerry Buss purchased the team in 1979. Under his leadership, the Lakers became one of the most successful franchises in NBA history, winning multiple championships and establishing a strong fan base. Jerry Buss’s innovative approach to basketball and business transformed the Lakers into a global brand, and his legacy continues through his children, particularly Jeanie Buss.

Jeanie Buss has played a crucial role in the team’s operations and decision-making processes. Her commitment to the franchise has been evident, and she has been a driving force in maintaining the team’s competitive edge in the league. The decision to sell a majority stake in the team marks a significant shift in the family’s long-standing involvement with the franchise.

Mark Walter: The New Majority Owner

Mark Walter’s acquisition of the majority ownership stake in the Lakers is a notable development for the franchise. As the CEO of TWG Global, a diversified holding company, Walter brings a wealth of experience in business and investment. His background in managing diverse assets and his strategic approach to business could provide new opportunities for the Lakers.

Walter’s leadership style and vision for the franchise will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. The Lakers have a rich history, and any changes in ownership will undoubtedly impact the team’s future direction. Walter’s commitment to maintaining the Lakers’ legacy while also looking for innovative ways to enhance the franchise will be a critical factor in the team’s success moving forward.

Jeanie Buss’s Continued Leadership

Despite the change in ownership, Jeanie Buss’s continued role as Governor of the Lakers is reassuring for fans and stakeholders. Her deep understanding of the team’s culture and operations, combined with her passion for basketball, should help facilitate a smooth transition. Buss’s leadership has already been pivotal in navigating the complexities of modern NBA dynamics, including player negotiations, marketing strategies, and fan engagement.

Jeanie’s ability to balance tradition with innovation has been crucial for the Lakers’ sustained success. With Walter’s business acumen and her basketball expertise, the partnership could lead to exciting developments for the franchise. Fans hope that this new ownership structure will capitalize on the Lakers’ storied history while embracing the future of the NBA.

Implications for the Los Angeles Lakers

The sale of a majority stake in the Lakers raises several questions about the franchise’s future. Will the new ownership group implement significant changes to the team’s operations, or will they maintain the existing structure? The Lakers have faced challenges in recent years, including fluctuating performance levels and roster changes. As the team seeks to return to championship contention, the leadership dynamics between Walter and Buss will be closely monitored.

Additionally, the business side of the Lakers could see new strategies under Walter’s guidance. The team has a strong brand presence, and there are opportunities to further engage fans through innovative marketing initiatives, enhanced digital presence, and community outreach programs. The new ownership could potentially expand the franchise’s revenue streams, benefiting both the team and its loyal fan base.

The Future of the NBA Landscape

This ownership change is part of a broader trend in the NBA, where franchise ownership groups are increasingly diversifying their portfolios and seeking innovative leaders to guide their teams. The Lakers, as one of the most iconic franchises in sports history, will be closely watched as they navigate this new chapter.

With Mark Walter at the helm of the majority ownership, the Lakers may explore fresh strategies to enhance their competitiveness in the league. The NBA landscape is evolving, and teams are looking for ways to adapt to the changing dynamics of player acquisition, fan engagement, and overall team performance. The Lakers’ new ownership could be a catalyst for innovative approaches in these areas.

Conclusion

The agreement for the Buss family to sell a majority stake in the Los Angeles Lakers to Mark Walter marks a historic moment for the franchise. With Jeanie Buss remaining in her leadership position, the continuity in management should help ensure a smooth transition during this significant change.

As fans eagerly anticipate the future of the Lakers, the collaboration between Walter and Buss will be pivotal in shaping the team’s direction. This ownership shift could bring new opportunities for growth and success, reinforcing the Lakers’ status as one of the premier franchises in the NBA.

In summary, the sale of majority ownership in the Los Angeles Lakers opens a new chapter in the team’s storied history. With Mark Walter’s business expertise and Jeanie Buss’s deep-rooted connection to the franchise, the Lakers are poised to embrace future challenges while honoring their rich legacy. As developments unfold, fans and analysts will be keenly observing how this change impacts the team’s operations, performance, and overall standing in the league.

BREAKING: The Buss family is entering an agreement to sell majority ownership of the Los Angeles Lakers to Mark Walter, the CEO and chairman of diversified holding company TWG Global, sources tell ESPN. Jeanie Buss will continue to serve in her role as Governor after the sale. pic.twitter.com/1Da6LDD7TJ

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 18, 2025

BREAKING: The Buss family is entering an agreement to sell majority ownership of the Los Angeles Lakers to Mark Walter, the CEO and chairman of diversified holding company TWG Global, sources tell ESPN. Jeanie Buss will continue to serve in her role as Governor after the sale.

In a significant shift for the iconic Los Angeles Lakers, the Buss family is reportedly entering an agreement that will see the majority ownership of this storied franchise sold to Mark Walter. Walter, who is the CEO and chairman of TWG Global, a diversified holding company, is set to take the reins of one of the NBA’s most successful teams. This news has sent ripples through the basketball community, and fans have plenty to say about what this means for the future of the Lakers.

What This Sale Means for the Lakers

The sale of the Lakers to Mark Walter could symbolize a new era for the team. With the Buss family, particularly Jeanie Buss, having been at the helm for decades, this transition could bring about fresh perspectives and strategies that might invigorate the franchise. Jeanie, who will retain her role as Governor after the sale, is likely to play a vital role in ensuring that the team remains competitive while blending the old with the new.

Jeanie Buss: A Steady Hand at the Helm

Jeanie Buss has been a pivotal figure in the Lakers’ history. Since taking control of the team, she has navigated through ups and downs while maintaining the team’s legacy. Keeping her position as Governor indicates that the franchise will continue to honor its rich history while exploring new avenues for growth and success. The combination of Walter’s business acumen and Jeanie’s deep-rooted connection to the Lakers could set the stage for exciting developments ahead.

The Impact on the Lakers’ Fan Base

The Lakers have one of the most passionate fan bases in all of sports. Fans are understandably curious about what this ownership change means for their beloved team. Will the new ownership lead to investments in player development? How will it affect ticket prices and fan engagement? These are questions that many are asking as they await further details on the transition. It’s essential for Walter to connect with fans and show them that he values their support as much as the Buss family has over the years.

Mark Walter: A New Vision for the Lakers

Mark Walter is not just a businessman; he is also a sports enthusiast. His leadership at TWG Global has been characterized by strategic investments and a forward-thinking approach. This could be a boon for the Lakers as they look to navigate the changing landscape of the NBA. Walter’s experience in managing large organizations could translate to effective strategies for enhancing the Lakers’ brand and performance on the court.

The Future of the Lakers’ Roster

One of the most pressing concerns for Lakers fans is how this sale will affect the team’s roster. Will Walter bring in new talent? Will he be willing to spend to keep star players? These questions are crucial, especially as the Lakers aim to compete for championships in the coming years. The management style of Walter will play a significant role in shaping the team’s roster decisions and overall strategy.

Financial Implications of the Sale

From a financial standpoint, this sale is monumental. The Lakers are one of the most valuable franchises in sports, and Walter’s investment could lead to increased revenues through sponsorships, merchandise sales, and ticket sales. Understanding these financial dynamics will be crucial for fans and analysts as they evaluate the long-term implications of this change in ownership.

The Role of Analytics and Technology

As the NBA evolves, so does the importance of analytics and technology in shaping team strategies. Walter’s background in diversified business ventures could lead to innovative approaches to player analysis, performance tracking, and fan engagement. The Lakers have always been at the forefront of basketball culture, and this ownership change could further cement that position, especially if Walter prioritizes tech-driven solutions.

Community Engagement and Social Responsibility

Additionally, the Lakers have a rich history of community involvement and social responsibility. As the new majority owner, Walter has an opportunity to expand on this legacy. How he chooses to engage with the Los Angeles community could significantly impact the franchise’s reputation and relationship with fans. Community initiatives, youth programs, and local partnerships could play a big role in defining the Lakers’ identity under new ownership.

The Lakers’ Brand: A Legacy to Uphold

The Los Angeles Lakers are synonymous with success, featuring a legacy that includes numerous championships, legendary players, and a global fan base. Walter’s acquisition of majority ownership brings with it the challenge of upholding this storied brand while introducing new elements that resonate with both long-time fans and new generations. This delicate balance will be critical as the franchise moves forward.

Comparing Ownership Styles: Buss vs. Walter

The transition from the Buss family to Walter’s leadership style will be a topic of much discussion. The Buss family has always been hands-on, deeply involved in day-to-day operations and player decisions. Will Walter adopt a similar approach, or will he take a step back and allow the management team to run the show? This could significantly influence the team’s culture and performance on the court.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the Lakers?

As we look to the future, the excitement surrounding this ownership change is palpable. Lakers fans are undoubtedly eager to see how Walter’s vision will shape the team’s direction. Will he prioritize winning now, or will he take a more long-term approach focused on building a sustainable franchise? The answers to these questions will unfold over time, but one thing is for sure: the Lakers are once again at the center of the sports world.

Conclusion

In summary, the agreement for the Buss family to sell majority ownership of the Los Angeles Lakers to Mark Walter represents a pivotal moment in the franchise’s history. With Jeanie Buss remaining in her role as Governor, there’s a unique opportunity to blend tradition with innovation. The future of the Lakers is bright, and fans can expect an exciting journey ahead as this new chapter unfolds.