Sources: Josh Kushner, Bob Iger to Buy Lakers for $12.5B

 Sources: Josh Kushner, Bob Iger to Buy Lakers for $12.5B

The Los Angeles Lakers could be heading into another major chapter in the franchise's history.

According to multiple reports, billionaire businessman Josh Kushner and entertainment executive Bob Iger have reached an agreement to purchase the Los Angeles Lakers for a reported $12.5 billion. If completed, the transaction would set a new record for the highest price ever paid for a professional sports franchise.

The stunning development comes less than a year after Mark Walter acquired a majority stake in the Lakers. The previous transaction valued the legendary NBA franchise at approximately $10 billion, making the reported $12.5 billion deal a remarkable increase in valuation in a very short period.

A Record-Breaking Lakers Deal

The reported $12.5 billion price tag immediately puts the Lakers at the center of the global sports business world.

The Lakers are one of the most recognizable teams in professional sports, with a history built around championship success, legendary players, Hollywood connections and one of the largest fan bases in the world.

For Kushner and Iger, the proposed purchase would represent a major expansion of their involvement in professional sports and entertainment.

Joshua Kushner is a prominent venture capitalist and the founder of Thrive Capital, while Bob Iger is the former longtime CEO of The Walt Disney Company and has extensive experience in sports and entertainment through Disney and ESPN.

Why the Deal Is So Significant

The reported agreement is significant for several reasons.

First, the $12.5 billion valuation would establish a new benchmark for the Lakers and potentially reshape expectations for the value of elite NBA franchises.

Second, the arrival of Iger and Kushner could create an ownership group with an unusual combination of sports, entertainment, technology and investment experience.

Iger's background in Hollywood and global entertainment could also bring a different perspective to the Lakers' massive international brand.

What Happens Next?

Although reports describe an agreement to purchase the team, the transaction is not yet completely finalized.

The deal still requires approval from the NBA Board of Governors, along with due diligence and other closing conditions. Until those steps are completed, the ownership transition should be viewed as a reported agreement rather than a completed sale.

The development is particularly notable because Mark Walter only recently became the Lakers' majority owner. The NBA officially approved Walter's acquisition of the majority interest in October 2025, with the Buss family retaining an ongoing interest at that time.

What Could It Mean for the Lakers?

A change in ownership could eventually influence the direction of the franchise, including business strategy, investment priorities and the team's long-term vision.

However, it is too early to know exactly what changes would occur. The focus for now remains on completing the transaction and receiving the necessary league approval.

For Lakers fans, the reported deal represents another extraordinary moment in the history of one of basketball's most famous franchises.

A New Era in Los Angeles?

If the $12.5 billion transaction is ultimately completed, Josh Kushner and Bob Iger would take control of one of the most valuable and globally recognized brands in sports.

The Lakers' combination of NBA history, championship tradition, superstar players and worldwide popularity makes the franchise unlike almost any other sports property.

The reported deal therefore goes beyond a simple ownership change. It could mark the beginning of a new era for the Los Angeles Lakers.

For now, fans around the world will be watching closely as the proposed record-setting transaction moves through the NBA approval process.

The Lakers' next chapter could be one of the biggest stories in sports business — and the reported $12.5 billion price tag has already made history.

Disclaimer

This article is based on reports from multiple news sources and information available at the time of publication. The reported Lakers sale remains subject to NBA approval, due diligence and completion of the required transaction procedures.