The Los Angeles Lakers have been sold for a record-breaking $10 billion, marking a shift in sports ownership from family control to large investment groups. This sale raises questions about the future of smaller teams.
The sale of the Los Angeles Lakers for $10 billion is a record-breaking deal, signifying a shift in sports ownership. The Buss family, owners since 1979, sold to an investment group led by Mark Walter, owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers. This reflects a broader trend: the biggest sports teams are increasingly owned by consortiums of investors rather than individuals or families. The Lakers' massive local TV deal and strong brand make them a safe investment, despite the decline of cable TV. While this sale is likely beneficial for the Lakers and their fans, it raises concerns about accountability for smaller teams owned by less visible investor groups.