Bob Iger and Josh Kushner are buying the Los Angeles Lakers from owner Mark Walter [1].
The transaction represents a historic shift in the valuation of professional sports franchises. By setting a new financial benchmark, the deal alters the landscape of NBA ownership and signals a surge in the perceived value of legacy sports brands.
Reports on Wednesday indicate the sale price is $12.5 billion [1], [2], [3]. Some sources place the figure at $12 billion [4], but the higher estimate is supported by the Los Angeles Times and CBS Sports [1], [2]. This amount marks a record-breaking price for an NBA franchise [1], [2].
Iger, the longtime leader of Disney, and Kushner, a venture capitalist, are acquiring the team in a deal [3]. The Lakers, based in Los Angeles, California, are one of the most recognized sports entities globally [1], [2].
Mark Walter previously held the primary ownership stake in the team [1]. The move to sell the franchise comes as the NBA continues to see exponential growth in media rights and international expansion, factors that contribute to the escalating price tags for flagship teams.
The deal was reported on Aug. 12, 2026 [1], [2], [3]. While the specific terms of the transition have not been fully disclosed, the transaction is being pursued as a record-breaking sale [1], [2].
“The Los Angeles Lakers franchise is being sold for a record-breaking $12.5 billion.”
This acquisition reflects the convergence of traditional sports, media, and venture capital. With Bob Iger's background in global entertainment and Josh Kushner's investment experience, the new ownership is positioned to leverage the Lakers not just as a basketball team, but as a global media property. The $12.5 billion valuation establishes a new floor for elite sports franchises, likely driving up the prices of other NBA and NFL teams in future sales.
