A Legacy at Stake: The Controversial Sale of the Lakers and the Buss Family Divide
In a recent CNBC interview, Los Angeles Lakers governor Jeanie Buss made a bold claim: her late father, Jerry Buss, would have approved of the family’s decision to sell their majority stake in the team to billionaire Mark Walter. But here’s where it gets controversial—while Jeanie insists the move was necessary to keep the Lakers at the top of the NBA, not everyone in the Buss family agrees. And this is the part most people miss: the sale has left deep fractures within the family, raising questions about legacy, loyalty, and the future of one of basketball’s most iconic franchises.
The Decision That Changed Everything
In 2025, the Buss siblings—Jeanie, Johnny, Jim, Janie, Joey, and Jesse—agreed to sell nearly 50% of their 66% ownership stake to Walter, valuing the team at a staggering $10 billion. The deal closed in October, with each sibling walking away with approximately half a billion dollars after taxes. While they retained about 17% ownership—just enough to meet the NBA’s 15% threshold for Jeanie to remain governor—the aftermath was anything but smooth. Five of the six siblings were terminated from their roles within the Lakers, leaving Jeanie as the sole Buss family member still involved with the team. She received a five-year contract and was the driving force behind the sale.
The Family Fallout
The move sparked intense family turmoil. Janie Buss, for instance, told ESPN she felt “disappointed and disrespected, like a crumpled-up piece of paper thrown into the trash.” She added, “I don’t think my dad would be happy with the way things just went down. Not at all.” This stark contrast in perspectives highlights the emotional and ideological divide within the family. Jeanie, however, defended the decision, stating, “My siblings were involved in the decision… It’s about the Lakers and the greatness and what the fans expect. You need resources and direction.”
The Legacy of Jerry Buss
Jerry Buss, who passed away in 2013, left behind a family trust that equally distributed the family’s 66% ownership among his children. For him, the Lakers were more than a team—they were his legacy. Jeanie argues that her father would have supported the sale because it ensures the Lakers remain competitive in the NBA. “What was important to him was that the Lakers stay at the top of the NBA, and to stay at the top, you need resources,” she explained. But is selling the majority stake to an outsider truly in line with Jerry’s vision? That’s a question that continues to spark debate among fans and family alike.
The Future of the Lakers
With the sale now finalized, the Lakers are transitioning from an era defined by LeBron James to a future built around Luka Doncic. “The partnership will give us the stability to continue moving forward as we build a team around Doncic,” Jeanie said. “We couldn’t be more proud that he is a Laker.” While James’ future with the team remains uncertain, Jeanie hasn’t ruled out his return. “Never say never,” she noted, acknowledging James’ impressive career and autonomy in deciding his next steps.
The Bigger Question: Was It Worth It?
The sale has undoubtedly secured the Buss family’s financial future, but at what cost? The family’s unity has been fractured, and the Lakers’ identity is evolving under new leadership. Jeanie insists this was the best decision for all six siblings, but the lingering resentment and public disagreements suggest otherwise. Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: Does the pursuit of resources and stability justify the erosion of a family legacy? And more importantly, would Jerry Buss truly approve of how his beloved Lakers are being steered into the future?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is a conversation that’s far from over.
