Who Owns the Lakers: The Essential Guide to This Iconic Team

The Lakers: A Team Steeped in History and Legacy

The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the most storied franchises in NBA history, with a legacy that spans nearly a century. The team has won 17 NBA championships, second only to the Boston Celtics, and boasts a roster of legendary players that includes Kobe Bryant, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Magic Johnson. But who exactly owns this iconic team, and how did they come to be one of the most valuable sports franchises in the world?

Jerry Buss: The Visionary Behind the Lakers’ Success

The story of the Lakers’ ownership begins with Jerry Buss, a real estate developer who purchased the team in 1979. Buss had a grand vision for the Lakers, transforming them from a struggling franchise into one of the most glamorous and successful teams in the league. Under Buss’s ownership, the Lakers won 10 NBA championships, including a five-year stretch from 2000 to 2002.

Buss’s Innovative Approach to Team Ownership

Buss was a visionary owner who revolutionized the way teams were run in the NBA. He introduced several innovative concepts, including luxury suites, celebrity endorsements, and a focus on entertainment value. Buss also had a keen eye for talent, bringing in superstar players like Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

The Lakers’ Dynasty Under Buss

The Lakers’ dynasty under Buss was one of the most dominant periods in NBA history. Led by the iconic trio of Johnson, Abdul-Jabbar, and James Worthy, the Lakers won five NBA championships in the 1980s, establishing themselves as one of the greatest teams of all time.

The Post-Buss Era: A Time of Transition

Jerry Buss passed away in 2013, leaving behind a legacy that would forever be etched in Lakers history. His ownership had transformed the team into a global brand, and the Lakers remained a competitive force in the years that followed.

Jeanie Buss: Carrying on the Family Legacy

After her father’s passing, Jeanie Buss took over as the controlling owner of the Lakers. Jeanie, who had been involved with the team for many years, vowed to continue her father’s legacy of success.

The Lakers Under Jeanie Buss

Under Jeanie Buss’s ownership, the Lakers have experienced both ups and downs. The team won the NBA championship in 2020, but has also faced challenges in recent years, including injuries to key players and a revolving door of head coaches.

The Future of Lakers Ownership

The Lakers’ ownership is currently in a state of transition, with Jeanie Buss exploring a potential sale of the team. Several potential buyers have emerged, including tech billionaire Steve Ballmer and a group led by former Lakers star Magic Johnson.

Potential Sale of the Lakers

A sale of the Lakers would mark a significant moment in the team’s history. The team has been owned by the Buss family for over four decades, and a sale would bring an end to one of the most successful eras in NBA history.

Who Could Buy the Lakers?

Several potential buyers have expressed interest in purchasing the Lakers, including:

• Steve Ballmer: The former CEO of Microsoft is a lifelong Lakers fan and has reportedly made an offer to buy the team.
• Magic Johnson Group: A group led by former Lakers star Magic Johnson is also reportedly interested in purchasing the team.
• Other Potential Buyers: Several other groups and individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the Lakers, including private equity firms and wealthy investors.

The Future of the Lakers Under New Ownership

If the Lakers are sold, the team’s future will depend on the new ownership group’s vision and priorities. The new owners will likely make significant changes to the team’s management and roster, with the goal of restoring the Lakers to championship contention.

The Lakers’ Ownership Group: A Diverse and Influential Roster

In addition to Jeanie Buss, the Lakers’ ownership group includes several other influential figures:

Phil Jackson: Zen Master and Lakers Legend

Phil Jackson is a legendary coach who won 11 NBA championships with the Lakers, including five with Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls. Jackson is a minority owner of the Lakers and serves as a special advisor to the team.

Jim Buss: Former General Manager and Executive

Jim Buss, Jeanie’s brother, served as the Lakers’ general manager from 2005 to 2014. Jim was responsible for assembling the team that won the NBA championship in 2010.

Rob Pelinka: Current General Manager

Rob Pelinka is the Lakers’ current general manager. Pelinka has been with the team since 2017 and is responsible for overseeing the team’s basketball operations.

The Lakers’ Financial Empire: A Multi-Billion Dollar Enterprise

The Lakers are one of the most valuable sports franchises in the world, with an estimated worth of over $5 billion. The team’s revenue streams include:

• Ticket sales: The Lakers play their home games at the iconic Staples Center, one of the most expensive arenas to attend in the NBA.
• Television deals: The Lakers have a lucrative television deal with Time Warner Cable that generates over $100 million per year.
• Merchandise sales: The Lakers have a global brand and sell a wide range of merchandise, including jerseys, hats, and other apparel.
• Sponsorships: The Lakers have a number of corporate sponsors, including Nike, Coca-Cola, and Toyota.

The Lakers’ Impact on Los Angeles and Beyond

The Lakers are more than just a basketball team; they are a cultural icon that has had a profound impact on Los Angeles and beyond:

• Economic impact: The Lakers generate a significant amount of revenue for the city of Los Angeles, through tourism, merchandise sales, and other economic activity.
• Cultural significance: The Lakers are a symbol of Los Angeles, and their games are attended by celebrities, politicians, and other influential figures.
• Community involvement: The Lakers are involved in a number of community outreach programs, including youth basketball clinics and after-school programs.

The Lakers’ Legacy: A Team for the Ages

The Lakers are one of the most storied franchises in NBA history, with a legacy that spans nearly a century. The team has won 17 NBA championships, and its roster of legendary players includes Kobe Bryant, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Magic Johnson. The Lakers are more than just a basketball team; they are a cultural icon that has had a profound impact on Los Angeles and beyond.