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Iger, Kushner Acquire Lakers for Record $12.5 B

8/12/2026

45 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Bob Iger and Josh Kushner are buying the Los Angeles Lakers from Mark Walter for a record-breaking $12.5 billion.
The $12.5 billion price exceeds the $10 billion Walter paid in October 2025, setting a new North American sports team record.
The sale requires NBA board of governors approval at a September meeting in New York.
Jeanie Buss will stay the Lakers’ governor for at least five years under the new owners.

History

Historical Context

In March 2012 Guggenheim Baseball Management, led by Mark Walter and Magic Johnson, bought the Los Angeles Dodgers for a record $2.15 billion, the highest price ever paid for a North American sports franchise. The landmark set a valuation trajectory that culminated in August 2026 when Josh Kushner and Bob Iger agreed to purchase the Los Angeles Lakers for $12.5 billion, illustrating how team values have multiplied over the past decade.

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Story summary

Bob Iger and Josh Kushner are buying the Los Angeles Lakers from Mark Walter for a record-breaking $12.5 billion.
The $12.5 billion price exceeds the $10 billion Walter paid in October 2025, setting a new North American sports team record.
The sale requires NBA board of governors approval at a September meeting in New York.
Jeanie Buss will stay the Lakers’ governor for at least five years under the new owners.

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