Josh Harris said the Los Angeles Lakers are worth the $12.5 billion [1] price tag being discussed for a potential sale.
The valuation reflects the growing financial scale of professional sports franchises. As owners seek higher returns, the Lakers' position as a global brand sets a new benchmark for NBA team values.
Speaking during a CNBC "Squawk Box" interview on Monday, Harris, who owns the Philadelphia 76ers and Washington Commanders, said he endorsed the high figure [2]. He said the Lakers are worth every bit of that $12.5 billion price tag [3].
Harris said the valuation is due to the franchise's market size and revenue streams [2]. He said that price reflects the brand power and revenue potential of the franchise [4].
This assessment comes as Harris manages a diverse sports portfolio. His consortium previously paid $6 billion [5] to acquire the Washington Commanders. The leap from that figure to the Lakers' discussed price highlights the perceived premium of the Los Angeles market over other major U.S. cities.
While Harris discussed the valuation, the identity of a potential buyer remains unconfirmed in official reports [1]. Some reports have suggested other businessmen are involved in negotiations, but these details have not been verified by the primary sources [1].
The Lakers continue to operate as one of the most recognized sports entities globally. Harris said that the combination of the city's reach and the team's history justifies the multi-billion dollar premium [2].
“"The Lakers are worth every bit of that $12.5 billion price tag."”
A $12.5 billion valuation would represent a historic peak for NBA franchise pricing, signaling that elite sports teams are being treated more like global media properties than local sports clubs. If a sale closes at this level, it will likely trigger a ripple effect, increasing the estimated value of other 'big market' teams in the NBA and NFL.
