Lakers ownership dispute erupts as Jeanie Buss challenges family stake sale

The Los Angeles Lakers are at the center of a fresh family dispute after Jeanie Buss publicly contested a claim that the Buss family is selling its remaining ownership interest to new investors. The contention revolves around a reported transaction that would transfer a minority stake to venture capitalist Josh Kushner and Disney executive Bob Iger, both of whom have recently entered the NBA ownership arena.

Jeanie Buss, who serves as the team’s controlling owner and president, said she was not consulted about the alleged sale and questioned its legitimacy. While details of the proposed deal remain sparse, the Buss family’s statement suggested that the transaction would bring fresh capital and strategic partners to the franchise.

The disagreement highlights the complexities of the Buss family’s holdings, which have been gradually diluted since the late‑1990s. Earlier this year, Kushner and Iger completed a purchase of a small percentage of the Lakers, marking the first time the franchise has taken on outside investors in decades. The new owners are expected to bring a blend of tech‑savvy and media expertise, but the internal family rift could complicate the integration of their interests.

Industry observers note that any shift in ownership structure could influence the Lakers’ long‑term strategic direction, from arena upgrades to player acquisition strategies. For now, Jeanie Buss remains firm that any sale must receive her approval, underscoring her role as the primary decision‑maker for the franchise.

The situation remains fluid, with both sides yet to release detailed statements or legal filings. As the Lakers prepare for the upcoming season, the ownership dispute adds another layer of uncertainty to a franchise already navigating a competitive Western Conference landscape.