Lakers Sell to Mark Walter in Record $10B Deal

Nearly dropped my coffee when I read the headline Lakers sell to Mark Walter in record $10B deal. The franchise that defined my childhood, owned by the legendary Buss family, just flipped hands after over four decades. It’s emotional, huge. but first let know about mark walter if you are confused of him

Who Is Mark Walter And Why Is He Buying the Lakers?

If you’re not deep into the business side of sports, the name Mark Walter might sound random. But trust me this man has been moving behind the scenes in major league sports for years.

Walter is the CEO of Guggenheim Partners, a global investment firm managing over $300 billion. He’s not new to owning franchises either he already co-owns the Los Angeles Dodgers, the WNBA’s LA Sparks, and even Chelsea Football Club in the UK. Basically, the man collects championship-level teams like trading cards and now he’s adding the Lakers to that portfolio.

But this move isn’t out of nowhere.

Back in 2021, Walter quietly bought a 20–27% minority stake in the Lakers. At the time, it didn’t make huge waves but it gave him first right of refusal if the Buss family ever decided to sell majority control. Fast forward to now, and that deal just paid off in a $10 billion way.

People who’ve worked with him say he’s strategic, not flashy, and most importantly he lets winning people keep winning. That’s probably why Jeanie Buss is staying on as team governor even after the sale. He’s not here to take over the culture he’s here to support it with big money, better infrastructure, and a long-term plan.

So yeah, the Lakers sale to Mark Walter is historic, but it’s not just about dollars it’s about handing the team off to someone who’s already proven he can build elite-level operations. And honestly? That might be exactly what this team needs.

What’s Really Going On?

So here’s what’s happening straight from the headlines:

• The Buss family has agreed to sell majority ownership of the Los Angeles Lakers to businessman Mark Walter, valuing the franchise at $10 billion 

• If finalized, this would be the most expensive sale of any U.S. sports franchise—surpassing even the Celtics’ $6.1B sale this year.

• Jeanie Buss the longtime governor since 2013 will stay on the job, ensuring some continuity amid the shift.

it’s the Lakers sell to Mark Walter in record $10B deal, and fans everywhere are feeling that impact.

A Brief History of Buss Family Ownership

The Lakers sell to Mark Walter in record $10B deal doesn’t just mean a change in ownership it ends a dynasty.

• In 1979, Jerry Buss bought the Lakers for $67.5 million, ushering in the golden “Showtime” era that brought five championships.

• After Jerry passed in 2013, his children, led by Jeanie, took over. Under their leadership, 11 NBA titles rolled in, solidifying their legacy.

• Now the Lakers sell to Mark Walter in record $10B deal closes this iconic chapter.

Jeanie Buss Stays?

Don’t freak out: Jeanie Buss is staying as governor, likely for several years 

• That means day-to-day control stays steady, even with the ownership switch.

• She led the team through resurgence and the 2020 title, and she’ll continue guiding it forward.

So, even with the Lakers sell to Mark Walter in record $10B deal, the rhythm stays familiar.

What Fans & Legacy Can Expect

The Lakers sell to Mark Walter in record $10B deal means change but maybe good change.

• Magic Johnson said Walter brings excellence, clarity, and investment 

• Imagine a steeper payroll, upgraded facilities, and deeper analytics.

• #Laker fans, get ready this could be the push the team needs.

The Deal in Context of NBA Sales

The Lakers sell to Mark Walter in record $10B deal is seismic. Compare it:

• The Mavericks sold for $3.5B in 2023.

• The Celtics sold for $6.1B in March 2025 

• Now? The Lakers leap to $10B a new benchmark.

What Could Change Under Walter?

Speculating, but here’s what might shift:

• More investment in players, support staff, facilities.

• Stronger cross-promotion with Dodgers and Sparks.

• Continued luxury tax strategies (he’s known to spend) all aligning with "win now" vibes.

Thoughts & CTA

The Lakers sell to Mark Walter in record $10B deal isn’t just a sale it’s a redefine.

It marks the end of the Buss legacy era and the beginning of something new. A new chapter under Walter’s ownership, but with familiar leadership in Jeanie.

So, Lakers fans are you excited or nervous? Drop a comment, share your thoughts, and tag a friend who needs to read this.

🔗 Internal Link:
Check out my breakdown of the Lakers’ playoff rebuild last season.

🔗 External Links:

• NY Post’s deep dive into the $10B deal

• AP News coverage of the transaction 

References

1. Buss family to sell Lakers at $10B valuation, ESPN/Reuters 

2. Magic Johnson praises deal, NY Post

3. Buss family era ends, AP News

4. Mark Walter’s sports empire, Bloomberg/Wiki 

5. Historical Lakers ownership, ESPN & Wiki