Jeanie Buss Faces Legal Challenge to Retain Lakers Governance

The ownership situation surrounding the Los Angeles Lakers has become increasingly complex, with Jeanie Buss facing a significant legal hurdle. Buss is attempting to prevent her five siblings from selling their 17.8% stake in the franchise to Josh Kushner and Bob Iger, a move that could impact her position as the team's governor.

Mark Walter, who recently acquired the Lakers from the Buss family, has agreed to sell his shares at a valuation of $12.5 billion, amidst a federal investigation into his business practices. If Jeanie Buss cannot block her siblings' sale, she risks losing her governance role due to league regulations requiring a minimum 15% ownership stake.

Buss's legal team has filed a petition in Los Angeles Superior Court, asserting that several minority owners, including Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong and Ed Roski Jr., support her continued governance but are not willing to sell their shares. This presents a challenge for Buss, who may need to acquire additional stakes to meet the ownership requirement.

While the situation remains fluid, sources indicate that Kushner is expected to become the new governor of the Lakers once the purchase is finalized, further complicating Buss's path to maintaining her role. The outcome of this legal battle will determine the future leadership structure of the storied franchise.