Legendary Voices Weigh In: Lakers’ $10 Billion Sale Draws Support from Jeanie Buss and Magic Johnson… Read more…
The Los Angeles Lakers’ $10 billion sale—the most expensive sports franchise deal in history—has drawn powerful reactions from the figures most closely tied to the team’s legacy. Among those speaking out are two of the most influential names in Lakers lore: Jeanie Buss, the long-standing face of the organization, and Magic Johnson, the iconic Hall of Famer turned businessman and minority owner.
Their voices carry significant weight—not just for Lakers fans, but for the broader NBA world. As the franchise transitions from family-owned legacy to billionaire-backed investment group, both Buss and Johnson are offering public reassurance that the purple and gold are in strong hands.
Jeanie Buss: Guiding the Transition with Trust and Grace
Jeanie Buss has been at the helm of the Lakers since 2013, navigating the team through post-Kobe Bryant rebuilding years, the arrival of LeBron James, and a return to championship form with the 2020 NBA title. For many fans, she is more than an executive—she is a steward of her late father Jerry Buss’s vision.
So when news broke of the sale to Mark Walter, principal owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, reactions ranged from shock to uncertainty. But Buss quickly stepped in to set the tone.
“I know people are surprised,” she said during a June 25 press conference. “But this isn’t the end of the Buss legacy. It’s a new beginning—with the right partner who shares our values, our pride, and our determination to win.”
Buss negotiated to remain in her current role as team governor and head of basketball operations through at least the next five seasons. She also ensured that several Buss family members would retain limited ownership stakes, preserving their connection to the franchise.
“It was never about walking away,” Buss added. “It was about finding someone who could elevate the Lakers into the next generation—on and off the court.”
Mark Walter: Earning the Trust of Lakers Legends
Mark Walter is no stranger to L.A. sports, having co-owned the Dodgers since 2012 and built them into one of Major League Baseball’s most successful and profitable franchises. His ability to run a competitive, stable, and innovative organization made him the ideal candidate in the eyes of the Buss family.
But the transition wouldn’t feel complete without endorsement from Magic Johnson—one of the most beloved figures in Lakers history and a man who understands both basketball and business.
Magic, who was also part of the Dodgers’ ownership group, expressed full confidence in Walter.
“Mark Walter is the perfect guy for this moment,” Magic told ClutchPoints. “He’s not just a great businessman—he loves L.A., he knows what it takes to build a winning franchise, and he respects the culture of the Lakers.”
Magic emphasized that Walter’s deep pockets were less important than his commitment to continuity and excellence.
“I’ve worked with him. I’ve seen how he operates. He lets smart people do their jobs and gives them the resources to be great,” Johnson said. “That’s what you want in an owner.”
Preserving the Lakers Culture: Legacy Meets Innovation
One of the most important themes in both Buss and Magic’s responses is the emphasis on cultural continuity. While ownership changes can often bring massive overhauls in staff, branding, or direction, both icons have made it clear that the Lakers’ identity will remain intact.
“Just because ownership changes doesn’t mean the culture changes,” Buss reassured. “We still bleed purple and gold. We still honor our history. And we’re still chasing banners.”
Walter reportedly met privately with current players, including LeBron James and Anthony Davis, prior to the deal becoming public. Those meetings were said to have gone well, with the players expressing optimism about the future.
Internally, sources have noted that while front office upgrades and infrastructure improvements are on the table, no immediate changes to leadership or coaching are expected before the 2025–26 season.
Fans React: Hopeful but Watchful
The reaction among Lakers fans has been a mix of emotions. For many, the $10 billion figure represents a validation of the Lakers’ unmatched brand power. For others, there’s a sense of nostalgia and caution.
On social media, phrases like “end of an era” and “bittersweet moment” trended in L.A. sports communities. But endorsements from Jeanie Buss and Magic Johnson appear to have tempered some of the uncertainty.
“Knowing Magic’s behind this makes me feel better,” said longtime Lakers fan Roberto T., 41. “If he trusts Walter, I’m willing to trust him too.”
Looking Ahead: Stability and Championship Aspirations
The new ownership structure is expected to help the Lakers expand globally, invest more heavily in player development, and modernize facilities—including a potential overhaul of Crypto.com Arena.
Walter is said to be committed to aggressive but responsible spending, similar to how he has managed the Dodgers’ payroll. Analysts expect the Lakers to maintain top-tier salaries, while also investing in analytics, sports science, and mental health resources for players.
And for fans hoping this transition will mean more titles, both Buss and Magic have a simple message: “We’re not done.”
Final Thoughts
In sports, change often brings uncertainty. But the endorsement of Mark Walter by Jeanie Buss and Magic Johnson offers a powerful message: the Lakers are not drifting—they are evolving. With strong voices still involved and a clear commitment to excellence, the Lakers remain poised to chase championship No. 18—and beyond.
As Jeanie Buss put it best, “This isn’t goodbye. It’s go time.”
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