The Los Angeles Lakers have officially become the most valuable sports franchise in U.S. history, following a $10 billion sale. Billionaire Mark Walter has acquired the iconic NBA team from Jeanie Buss. The deal not only breaks records but also signals a new chapter for the storied Lakers organization.
According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, the sale could mark the beginning of a major overhaul in how the Lakers operate. Speaking on SportsCenter, Windhorst expressed that rival teams should be concerned.
“I would only suspect that the modernization of the Lakers is about to come. If I were another team, I would not think this is a great development. I think the Lakers are only going to get more dangerous as an organization with the more resources that are theoretically here about to be poured into it,” Windhorst reported.
Brian Windhorst on the Lakers after their record sale:
— NBA Retweet (@RTNBA) June 19, 2025
"I think the Lakers are only gonna get more dangerous as an organization with the more resources that are theoretically here about to be poured into it"
h/t @ohnohedidnt24
pic.twitter.com/UGsJArxjuX
This record-breaking transaction surpasses the previous U.S. sports franchise sale record of $6.1 billion set by the Boston Celtics. It reflects the global brand power of the Lakers and their rich championship history.
Magic Johnson Applauds Los Angeles Lakers Sale
Lakers legend Magic Johnson didn’t stay silent following the historic sale. Johnson praised both the decision and the man now at the helm of the franchise in an X post.
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“Laker fans should be estatic. A few things I can tell you about Mark – he is driven by winning, excellence, and doing everything the right way. AND he will put in the resources needed to win! I can understand why Jeanie sold the team to Mark Walter because they are just alike – they are competitive people, l have big hearts, love to give back, and both prefer to be behind the scenes,” Johnson wrote.
The Buss family’s legacy with the Lakers began when the late Jerry Buss purchased the team for $67.5 million in 1979. Now, with a $10 billion valuation and new ownership, the Lakers seem poised for even more banners hanging in the rafters.
