Buss Family Reaffirms Plan to Sell Remaining Lakers Stake Despite Jeanie’s Opposition

Posted : 19 August 2026

Five of the six members of the Buss family trust have reaffirmed their intention to sell the family’s remaining stake in the Los Angeles Lakers, deepening the dispute with team governor Jeanie Buss.

In a statement released Tuesday, Johnny, Jimmy, Janie, Joey and Jesse Buss said they were united behind the decision to sell the family’s remaining 17.8% ownership interest. They emphasized that their priority remains protecting the Lakers’ future, their supporters and the wider Los Angeles community.

The development follows Jeanie Buss’ decision to challenge her siblings’ vote. Jeanie, the only member of the trust who did not support the sale, maintains that the proposed transaction cannot proceed without approval from the relevant co-trustees. Her attorney has also demanded that her siblings publicly recognize her continuing authority as the Lakers’ controlling owner.

The disagreement centers on the family’s remaining shares following last year’s sale of majority control to Mark Walter at a $10 billion valuation. The Buss family retained a minority position, but that stake is now set to be included in the latest ownership transition involving Bob Iger and Josh Kushner.

Iger and Kushner have agreed to acquire approximately 65% of the Lakers from Walter at a $12.5 billion valuation. If the Buss family’s 17.8% stake is added to their purchase, the incoming ownership group would control roughly 83% of the franchise. The deal still requires NBA approval and other closing procedures.

The Buss siblings supporting the sale said they have confidence in Iger and Kushner to preserve the identity and traditions established by their late father, Jerry Buss. They believe the incoming owners understand the significance of the Lakers to Los Angeles and its loyal fanbase.

For Jeanie, however, the consequences could be significant. She has served as the Lakers’ governor since 2013, and her position is tied to maintaining a minimum ownership stake. If the family’s remaining shares are sold, she would lose her governor role despite a previous agreement that was expected to keep her in the position through 2030.

The ownership dispute now threatens to become a legal battle, with Jeanie challenging the validity of the family vote while her five siblings insist they intend to proceed with the sale.

Buss Family Reaffirms Plan to Sell Remaining Lakers Stake Despite Jeanie’s Opposition

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