Sources: Josh Kushner, Bob Iger To Buy Lakers For $12B

Who Is Buying the Lakers for $12 Billion? Josh Kushner, Bob Iger and the $12B Lakers Deal The Los Angeles Lakers have been one of the most talked-about franchises in the NBA for years. But in 2026, the conversation shifted from whether they'd stay in their current ownership structure to how much they'd cost to buy out. Reports have been swirling that Josh Kushner and Bob Iger are in advanced talks to purchase the Lakers for a staggering $12 billion. That's not a small number — it's nearly double what the franchise was valued at just a few years ago. So who exactly is behind this deal, what does it mean for the Lakers and the NBA, and why should you care? Let's break it all down. What Is the Lakers Deal? The Lakers have been owned by the Buss family since 2011, when Steve Ballmer bought the team for $2.3 billion. The franchise has been a powerhouse, with 17 NBA championships, a legendary legacy, and a massive fanbase across Southern California. But the Buss family has been looking to sell, and the market has been ready. The $12 billion figure comes from reports that have been circulating since mid-2025 and have only grown in strength since then. Kushner, a well-known real estate and investment figure, and Iger, the former Disney CEO who helped bring the Lakers back to Los Angeles in 2018, are at the center of the negotiations. The deal would likely involve a combination of cash and equity, with the specifics still being worked out. The number is significant because the Lakers have been valued at roughly $6 billion in 2023, and the valuation has been climbing steadily since then. A $12 billion price tag would make this one of the most expensive sports franchises in the world. Why $12 Billion Is the Right Number To understand why $12 billion matters, you have to look at the broader market. The NBA has seen a massive increase in the value of its franchises over the past decade. The Warriors, the Celtics, and the Lakers have all seen their valuations climb. The Lakers specifically have been one of the most valuable teams in the league, and the $12 billion figure puts them in the same league as the Dallas Cowboys and the New York Yankees in terms of sports franchise valuation. Why It Matters This deal isn't just about a basketball team. It's about the future of the Lakers, the NBA, and the broader sports industry. The Lakers' Future If the deal goes through, the Lakers will have the financial resources to invest in the team's infrastructure, player development, and facilities. The current Buss family ownership has been cautious about spending, but a $12 billion purchase would open the door for massive upgrades. We're talking about new arenas, training facilities, and the kind of investment that keeps the Lakers competitive for decades. The NBA's Big Picture The NBA has been growing its global audience, and the Lakers are one of its flagship franchises. A new ownership group with deep pockets would likely bring more investment into the league, which could help the sport's bottom line. The Lakers have been a cornerstone of the NBA's brand, and their success has helped the league grow in international markets. The Buss Family's Legacy The Buss family has been in charge for over a decade, and they've built a strong foundation. But the market has changed. The Lakers are no longer the only team in the city, and other buyers have been watching. The deal would be a major event in the sports world, and it would set a precedent for how teams are valued in the future. How It Works The process of buying a sports franchise is complex, and the Lakers deal is no exception. Here's what you need to know about how it works. The Negotiation Phase Kushner and Iger are reportedly in advanced talks, but the deal is not yet finalized. The Buss family has not officially confirmed any sale, and the terms are still being negotiated. The key question is whether the deal will be structured as a cash purchase, an equity deal, or a combination of both. Due Diligence Before any sale closes, there will be a thorough due diligence process. This includes verifying the financial health of the buyers, checking for any outstanding debts or legal issues, and ensuring that the team can operate smoothly under new ownership. The Lakers have a rich history, and any buyer needs to understand that they're taking on a legacy. The Closing Once the deal is finalized, the new owners will take control of the team. This includes everything from the players and staff to the arena and the franchise's intellectual property. The Lakers have been in the same city for over 70 years, and the new owners will need to respect that history while also building for the future. What the Buyers Bring Josh Kushner has a background in real estate and has been involved in various business ventures across the country. Bob Iger, on the other hand, has a deep understanding of the sports business, having been instrumental in the Lakers' return to Los Angeles. Together, they bring a combination of financial expertise and sports knowledge that could make this a successful deal. Common Mistakes When it comes to buying a sports franchise, there are a lot of things that can go wrong. Here are some of the most common mistakes that people make when considering a deal like this. Overpaying One of the biggest mistakes is overpaying for a team. The $12 billion figure is a lot, and it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of the deal. But you need to make sure you're getting a fair value. The Lakers have a rich history, and the team's value goes beyond just the current market price. Ignoring the Cultural Fit The Lakers have a unique culture, and the new owners need to respect that. The team's history, its players, and its fanbase are all part of what makes the Lakers special. If the new owners don't understand or respect that culture, the team could struggle. Underestimating the Operational Challenges Buying a sports team is not just about the money. There are operational challenges that come with it, from managing the players to running the business. The new owners need to be prepared for the long haul. Not Considering the Tax Implications There are tax implications to consider when buying a sports franchise. The buyers need to make sure they're structuring the deal in a way that minimizes tax liability and maximizes their return on investment. Practical Tips If you're thinking about investing in a sports franchise, or if you're just curious about how these deals work, here are some practical tips. Do Your Research Before making any decision, you need to do your research. Look at the team's