Current Ownership Structure of the Lakers
The controlling owner of the Los Angeles Lakers is Jeanie Buss, who serves as controlling owner and president of the Lakers. She inherited her stake after the passing of her father, Jerry Buss, who previously controlled the franchise. The Lakers operate under the umbrella of Lakers LP, the entity that holds the team. This structure is typical for major NBA franchises, where a single controlling family or group holds the majority of economic interest and voting power. The NBA Board of Governors must approve any significant change in ownership or control. For a broader look at NBA franchise valuations, see the latest Forbes NBA valuations list.
The Lakers are consistently ranked among the most valuable teams in the NBA, with Forbes estimating the franchise value in the billions. The team generates revenue from national TV deals, local broadcasting, ticket sales, and merchandise. Jeanie Buss oversees the business operations, while the day-to-day basketball operations are led by the general manager and head coach. The ownership group also includes several minority partners, but Jeanie Buss holds the final say on major decisions. The franchise's financial power is a key factor in its ability to attract top talent and build championship rosters.
History of Lakers Ownership
The Lakers were originally founded as the Minneapolis Lakers in 1947 before relocating to Los Angeles in 1960. Jerry Buss, a chemist and businessman, purchased the team in 1979, marking the beginning of the Buss family era. He was a pioneer in treating sports teams as major entertainment businesses, investing heavily in the Forum and later the Staples Center. His vision transformed the Lakers into a global brand and a model franchise for the league. The transition to Jeanie Buss as controlling owner began after his death in 2013, with her officially taking control in 2017.
Before Jerry Buss, the team was owned by a group of investors, including Bob Short, who moved the franchise from Minneapolis. The Buss family's long-term stewardship has seen the Lakers win multiple championships and establish one of the most loyal fan bases in sports. The ownership history is a case study in sports franchise management, showing how a single family can maintain control for decades. The current structure ensures continuity, with the Buss family trust holding the primary ownership stake. This stability is a key reason the Lakers remain a top destination for free agents and investors.
Key Figures and Business Operations
Jeanie Buss is the controlling owner and serves as the controlling owner of the Lakers, making her the most powerful figure in the franchise's business operations. She is also the controlling owner of the WNBA's Los Angeles Sparks, demonstrating her broader sports portfolio. The Lakers' front office is led by the general manager, who reports to the ownership group on player acquisitions and contract decisions. The team's business operations include partnerships with major brands and media companies, which are critical for revenue growth. The Staples Center, now known as Crypto.com Arena, is the home venue and a key asset in the team's portfolio.
The Lakers' ownership model is similar to other major professional sports teams, where a controlling owner manages the franchise through a holding company. The NBA's collective bargaining agreement and media deals heavily influence the team's financial performance. The franchise's value continues to rise, driven by lucrative national TV contracts and sponsorships. Jeanie Buss's leadership has kept the Lakers competitive on and off the court, focusing on long-term brand building. The team's ability to leverage its history and star power ensures its position as one of the most valuable assets in the NBA.