The Los Angeles Lakers, one of the most iconic franchises in professional sports, have officially changed ownership in a deal that has set a new benchmark in the industry. Businessman Josh Kushner and former Disney CEO Bob Iger have reached an agreement to purchase the team for an astonishing $12.5 billion, as reported by ESPN. This transaction not only highlights the immense value of the Lakers but also establishes a new record for the highest sale price of any professional sports franchise.
This monumental deal is still pending approval from the NBA’s Board of Governors, but it underscores the rapid appreciation of the Lakers’ worth. Just last year, Mark Walter acquired a controlling interest in the team from the Buss family at a valuation of approximately $10 billion. In less than a year, the franchise's value has surged by roughly 25%, showcasing the Lakers' status as a premier sports entity.
The Lakers now hold the top two records for the largest franchise sales in sports history, with their latest sale at $12.5 billion in 2026 and the previous sale at $10 billion in 2025. For context, other notable franchise sales include the Seattle Seahawks, which were sold for $9.6 billion, and the Boston Celtics, which fetched $6.1 billion in 2025. These figures illustrate the escalating financial landscape of professional sports, particularly in the NBA.
Kushner and Iger were not initially viewed as the frontrunners for the Lakers. The duo had previously been engaged in discussions regarding a potential NBA expansion team in Las Vegas. However, their strategic pivot to pursue the Lakers has resulted in this record-setting acquisition, further emphasizing the allure of owning a franchise with such a rich history.
The Lakers are not just a basketball team; they represent a global brand with a legacy filled with legendary players and numerous championships. The franchise's cultural significance extends beyond the court, making it a highly coveted asset in the sports world. This sale reflects the increasing demand for ownership stakes in successful sports franchises, which are becoming more valuable as the popularity of the NBA continues to grow.
With this sale, the Lakers are entering a new era, marking a significant transition following decades of leadership from the Buss family and Walter’s brief tenure as majority owner. Kushner and Iger now have the opportunity to redefine the future of the franchise and navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
As the sports landscape evolves, one thing remains clear: the financial stakes in professional sports are rising, and owning a franchise like the Lakers comes with a hefty price tag of $12.5 billion.
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