Bob Iger and Josh Kushner Acquire LA Lakers for Record $12 Billion
Former Disney CEO Bob Iger and Josh Kushner's Thrive Capital have purchased the Los Angeles Lakers for $12 billion, according to Deadline. The deal marks a major sports franchise acquisition for Iger, fulfilling a longtime ambition. Iger and Kushner expressed their deep honor in becoming stewards of the iconic NBA team.
The transaction values the franchise at $12.5 billion, establishing a new benchmark for American sports team sales. This figure surpasses the previous record, which current owner Mark Walter set only about a year prior.
The acquisition involves purchasing Walter's controlling 80% interest in the team. Iger, a former Disney chief, and Kushner, who leads Thrive Capital, are the buyers, fulfilling Iger's long-standing ambition to own a major-market sports franchise.
This record valuation could set a new financial ceiling for NBA teams, influencing future sale negotiations. Lakers fans may experience changes in front-office priorities and branding under the new owners. The pairing of a media executive and a tech investor might also accelerate the team's digital and commercial ventures, potentially widening the gap between wealthy franchises and smaller markets.