Jeanie Buss's Current Ownership Percentage
Jeanie Buss controls the majority of the Los Angeles Lakers through a complex family trust structure. Her effective ownership stake is estimated at over 66% of the team's economic interests, with controlling voting power in the franchise. This gives her final decision-making authority on major basketball and business operations. The Lakers are valued at approximately $6.4 billion, making them one of the most valuable sports franchises globally according to Forbes.
The Buss family trust, established by her father Jerry Buss, holds the primary ownership of the Lakers. Jeanie Buss serves as the controlling trustee and the team's controlling owner. This structure means her personal ownership is tied to her role within the trust rather than a single direct share count. The trust's structure ensures continuity of family control over the franchise for the foreseeable future.
Ownership Structure and Control Mechanisms
The Buss Family Trust
The Lakers are owned by Buss Holdings LLC, which is controlled by the Buss family trust. Jeanie Buss was named the controlling owner of the trust after her father's passing in 2013. She was subsequently recognized as the controlling owner of the Lakers by the NBA. Her siblings hold minority interests within the trust but defer to her on basketball decisions as outlined by the NBA.
Voting vs. Economic Interests
In the NBA, ownership is divided between economic interests and voting interests. Jeanie Buss holds the majority of both, but the voting control is what grants her final authority on team operations. The NBA constitution requires a majority vote of team owners for major decisions, but the controlling owner of a single franchise dictates its internal direction. This dual control makes her position uniquely powerful within the league.
Financial Value and Franchise Ranking
The Lakers' valuation has grown significantly under Jeanie Buss's leadership, driven by revenue from media deals and sponsorships. The franchise consistently ranks among the top three most valuable NBA teams. Her ownership stake represents a substantial portion of this multi-billion dollar asset. The team's financial success is closely tied to her management decisions per Forbes' annual valuations.
Jeanie Buss's net worth is heavily influenced by the Lakers' value and her other business ventures. The franchise generates revenue through ticket sales, broadcasting rights, and merchandise. As controlling owner, she receives the majority of the team's profits. This financial structure ensures her continued dominance in the franchise's ownership hierarchy per public filings.