Lakers owner Mark Walter agrees sale terms with Josh Kushner, sources say

Lakers owner Mark Walter and Thrive Capital founder Josh Kushner have agreed on all outstanding terms of a proposed sale at a $12.5 billion team valuation, unnamed sources close to the negotiations told ESPN. The figure values the whole team; the purchase price and exact ownership percentage being transferred have not been disclosed.

Walter acquired controlling ownership from the Buss family in 2025, with the purchase ratified that October. The Los Angeles Times said on 12 August 2026, that the proposed deal would transfer majority ownership from Walter to Kushner and former Disney CEO Bob Iger.

What the buyers have said about the team

After Walter’s purchase, the NBA said Jeanie Buss would remain as team governor—the Lakers' representative in league meetings—for at least 5 years. Iger has said her role would stay the same under the prospective owners.

In their August statement, Kushner and Iger said their long-term commitment was to build on the Buss family’s work, compete at the highest level and serve the team, its fans and Los Angeles.

Signing and league approval remain ahead

The sources who spoke to ESPN said Walter and Kushner met at Walter’s Florida home on 29 October 2026 to finalize the transaction. Kushner assured Walter that he had raised all the money necessary to complete the sale.

The Times also said in August that Kushner would need to sell his minority stake in the Miami Heat to finalize the Lakers purchase.

ESPN’s sources expect Walter and Kushner to sign the formal agreement soon. After signing, the NBA will review the financing and ownership structure. The ownership transfer also requires approval from the league’s Board of Governors.