Luka Doncic weighs in on the Lakers being sold.
In a stunning move on Wednesday, the Los Angeles Lakers were sold for $12.5 billion.
Josh Kushner and Bob Iger are purchasing the team from Mark Walter, who had purchased a controlling interest in the team from the Buss family last year.
Kushner is an American businessman and venture capitalist who is a founder and managing partner of the venture capital firm Thrive Capital, co-founder and vice-chairman of Oscar Health, and co-founder of Vostu. He is also the brother of Jared Kushner.
Iger was the President and CEO of The Walt Disney Company and the President of ABC. He is a board member of Perfect Day and Genies, Inc.
Luka Doncic Weighs In
After news of the sale was announced, Lakers superstar Luka Doncic issued the following statement:
"Being a Laker means everything to me, and I’m excited to get back on the court and bring a championship to LA. I’ve gotten used to big changes over these last few years, but I know that no matter what, there is no limit to the potential of this iconic franchise. I look forward to meeting Josh and Bob so we can get to work building something special in LA together."
Doncic was acquired by the Lakers in February 2025 from the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Anthony Davis. As one of the top five players in the NBA, he immediately became the face of the franchise despite the team already having LeBron James on the roster.
Doncic has two years left on his contract before having a decision to make on a player option in the 2028 offseason. He is owed $49 million this season, $53 million next season, and his player option is for $57 million in 2028-29.
What Does This Mean?
For the Lakers' immediate future, it's unclear. Iger is involved with Angel City FC, a Los Angeles-based National Women's Soccer League team, while Kushner previously had a stake in the Memphis Grizzlies and Miami Heat.
Both have successful track records as businessmen and leaders.
Kushner runs Thrive Capital, which launched Thrive Eternal in May. The company is focused on restoring iconic brands. The first investment was a minority stake in the San Francisco Giants.
They wanted to be involved in a Las Vegas expansion team and have now pivoted, as those plans didn't work out.
The Lakers have always been an attractive destination, and if ownership is willing to spend, that record should continue.
Walter, who also has ownership of the Los Angeles Dodgers, selling the team a year after acquiring them from the Buss family is a loud statement that shouldn't be overlooked, though his reason for selling is unknown.
'He was reportedly involved in a federal probe with $16 billion in undisclosed loans tied to his empire.
Right now, it's business as usual for the Lakers players as they have their sights set on a championship this season.
