Patryk Stachowiak
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Joshua Kushner and Bob Iger are purchasing the Los Angeles Lakers for more than $12 billion, ESPN reported on Wednesday, citing sources with knowledge of the deal. The transaction sets a new benchmark for NBA franchise valuations.
Billionaire Mark Walter purchased a majority stake in the Lakers last year in a deal that valued the club at $10 billion, with board of governors approval coming only in October. The new deal surpasses that figure by more than $2 billion, underscoring the accelerating market for top-tier sports franchises.
Reuters was not immediately able to reach the Lakers for comment.
The announcement arrives weeks after Kushner emerged as a central figure in a private equity dispute surrounding global soccer governing body FIFA. FIFA announced plans last month to create a subsidiary to manage the World Cup, with minority stakes offered at an equity valuation of $20 billion to Kushner’s Thrive Capital. That move drew widespread outrage and put FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s position under pressure.
Iger, the former CEO of the Walt Disney Company, previously acquired a majority stake in NWSL side Angel City FC, making the Lakers deal his second prominent sports ownership move.
Stay with TipsGG for continued coverage as this story develops.