The Los Angeles Lakers are entering a new era on and off the court. While speculation surrounds LeBron James amid the franchise’s commitment to Luka Doncic, a new owner will oversee the fallout. Mark Walter is the new majority owner of the Lakers, and he has recently provided insight into the future of the team’s decorated governor, Jeanie Buss.
How Does New Ownership Impact Jeanie Buss?
The NBA Board of Governors announced that they unanimously approved Walter as the new majority owner of the Lakers. Walter has been a Los Angeles stakeholder since 2021. Taking over majority ownership prompted speculation about Buss’ future.
However, Los Angeles insider Ramona Shelburne shared how important it was to Walter that Buss remained an essential part of the organization. Walter said, “Few teams carry the legacy and global influence of the Lakers, and it’s a privilege to work alongside Jeanie Buss as we maintain that excellence and set the standard for success in this new era, both on and off the court.”
Buss added, “I have come to know Mark well, first as a businessman, then as a friend, and now as a colleague. He has demonstrated time and time again his commitment to bringing championships to Los Angeles.”
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Walter believes that Buss’s leadership aligns with his global vision.
Walter completed the sale from the Buss family for $10 billion. He is the Chief Executive Officer of TWG Global Holdings, LLC, which has ownership stakes in the Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Sparks, and several other sports ventures.
The Buss family will retain a minority stake in the Lakers, which will allow Buss to remain in her current role as Governor for the foreseeable future. The Buss family has owned the Lakers since 1979, when Jerry Buss bought the franchise from Jack Kent Cooke. The franchise has won 11 NBA championships during that span, featuring legendary players such as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, Kobe Bryant, and Shaquille O’Neal.
EVERY Angle of Austin’s game-winner pic.twitter.com/QXZYJ1sky3
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) October 30, 2025
As far as on-court matters, the Lakers are currently sixth in the Western Conference at 3-2. Head Coach JJ Redick must be encouraged by his team’s start, considering both James and Doncic are out of the lineup due to injuries. Austin Reaves has stepped up in their absence, as he’s averaging 35.8 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 8.5 assists per game this season on 52.5% shooting.
This appears to be a season of transition on all fronts for the Lakers, and a deep playoff run could add to what is already a special season in franchise history.
