Full Breakdown
Lakers Ownership Dispute Threatens Jeanie Buss’s Governorship
8/23/2026, 7:46:10 AM
Ownership Sale and Governorship Requirement
The Los Angeles Lakers are in the midst of a complex ownership transition. Bob Iger and Josh Kushner are set to purchase the franchise’s majority stake from Mark Walter. The Buss Family Trust still holds a 17.8 % minority share. Five of Jeanie Buss’s siblings intend to sell their portions of that stake, a move that would drop Jeanie’s ownership below the 15 % threshold required to retain the role of Lakers governor. If the full 17.8 % is sold, Jeanie would be forced out of the governorship, ending her more-than-40-year involvement with the organization.
Legal Context and 2017 Court Order
A 2017 Los Angeles Superior Court order directs the co-trustees of the Buss Family Trust—Jeanie, Janie and Joey—to take “all reasonable actions” to keep Jeanie as controlling owner for her lifetime unless the court later modifies the arrangement. Jeanie’s legal team argues that any attempt by the “Buss 5” siblings to sell the entire 17.8 % stake would breach that order and could constitute contempt of court. ESPN analyst Dave McMenamin, who notes he is not a lawyer, expressed skepticism that a judge would side with Jeanie, suggesting the siblings’ unified front may outweigh a literal reading of the 2017 order.
Reactions from Former Players
- “That would be sad. That would be strange and very, very sad,” — Robert Horry
- “I love Jeanie. Absolutely love Jeanie and what she’s about,” — Matt Barnes
Both former Lakers—Robert Horry and Matt Barnes—voiced support for Jeanie Buss, emphasizing the emotional weight of the family’s legacy and the desire to see her continue in management.
Potential Resolutions and Timeline
Sources indicate that a partial sale preserving Jeanie’s ownership above the 15 % mark is being explored as the most viable compromise. A settlement that grants the siblings liquidity while allowing Jeanie to remain governor is described as “more likely” than a court-mandated full sale or a complete block of the transaction. Analysts predict the dispute will not be resolved before the start of the 2026-27 NBA season.
Key Figures and Stakes
- Jeanie Buss — Lakers governor, seeks to retain at least 15 % ownership.
- Bob Iger — Co-owner, pledged to honor Jeanie’s governorship terms.
- Josh Kushner — Co-owner, partner in the majority-stake purchase.
- “Buss 5” siblings — Janie, Joey, and three other siblings aiming to cash out.
- Robert Horry — Former player, quoted on the emotional impact of the sale.
- Matt Barnes — Former player, publicly supports Jeanie Buss.
