Lakers Sold to Dodgers Owner in $10B Deal

Jeanie Buss discusses new era for Lakers with focus on Luka Dončić and Cincoro tequila business

Feb. 18, 2026 at 2:39pm

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The Los Angeles Lakers have been sold to Mark Walter, owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, in a $10 billion deal. The transition signals a shift in NBA power dynamics, with Walter's financial resources seen as crucial for maintaining the Lakers' position at the top of the league. Former controlling owner Jeanie Buss acknowledged the sale was 'bittersweet' due to family infighting, but framed it as the best outcome to ensure the Lakers' continued success. The team is now focused on building around young star Luka Dončić, a pivot away from relying on veteran players like LeBron James. Buss also discussed the growth of her Cincoro tequila brand, a venture she co-founded with Michael Jordan and other NBA owners.

Why it matters

The Lakers' sale to a deep-pocketed owner like Walter highlights the growing importance of financial resources in the NBA. Teams willing to exceed the salary cap and pay luxury taxes gain a significant competitive advantage in attracting and retaining top talent. This shift could lead to further imbalance in the league, as wealthy owners can outspend their rivals. The Lakers' strategic pivot to build around Dončić also signals a generational change, as the franchise moves away from relying on aging superstars.

The details

The $10 billion sale of the Lakers to Mark Walter, owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, represents a major transition for the franchise. Walter's aggressive spending with the Dodgers since 2012 is seen as a model for how he will approach the Lakers, providing the financial resources needed to compete at the highest level. The sale wasn't without internal conflict, as reports detail significant infighting among the Buss siblings that ultimately contributed to the decision. Jeanie Buss acknowledged the sale was 'bittersweet,' but framed it as the best outcome for all six family members. The Lakers are now focused on building a team around young star Luka Dončić, a clear pivot away from relying on veteran players like LeBron James, whose future with the team remains uncertain.

  • The Lakers were officially sold to Mark Walter in February 2026.

The players

Mark Walter

The owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers who has purchased a majority stake in the Los Angeles Lakers for $10 billion.

Jeanie Buss

The former controlling owner of the Los Angeles Lakers, who will continue as governor for at least five years after the sale.

Luka Dončić

The young star player that the Lakers are now focused on building their team around.

LeBron James

The veteran Lakers player whose future with the team remains uncertain as the franchise shifts its focus to a younger core.

Michael Jordan

An NBA owner who co-founded the Cincoro tequila brand with Jeanie Buss.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.