The Los Angeles Lakers were sold for $12.5 billion [1] to billionaire Josh Kushner and former Disney CEO Bob Iger.
This transaction represents the highest price ever paid for an NBA franchise. It establishes a new financial benchmark for professional sports teams, signaling a shift in how the market values premium athletic brands.
The sale was announced on Aug. 13 [2]. The buyer group includes Kushner and Iger, who acquired the team from seller Mark Walter. Walter had held ownership for 14 months [3] before finalizing the deal.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver is overseeing the transition of the Los Angeles-based team. The record-breaking price reflects a broader trend in sports mergers and acquisitions, where premium multiples are now common. Recent NBA franchise deals have frequently reached valuations greater than 10 times the annual revenue [4].
Industry analysts said that the Lakers' global brand power contributed to the steep price tag. The deal is expected to influence the valuation of other NBA teams as owners look to capitalize on the new market ceiling [1].
The acquisition marks a significant entry into sports ownership for Iger, whose tenure at Disney provided extensive experience in global entertainment and intellectual property. Kushner's involvement further ties the franchise to high-profile venture capital and investment circles.
“The Lakers were sold for a record-breaking $12.5 billion.”
The $12.5 billion valuation suggests that NBA teams are increasingly viewed as diversified media and entertainment assets rather than mere sports franchises. By achieving a multiple greater than 10 times revenue, the Lakers have created a new 'floor' for elite teams, likely driving up the cost of entry for future owners and increasing the net worth of existing NBA ownership groups across the league.
