Mark Walter, TWG & the Lakers: How a $10B Deal Rewrites Sports Franchise Values

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Mark Walter

In a transaction that stunned the sports world, Mark Walter, billionaire investor and owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, has reached a deal to acquire a controlling stake in the Los Angeles Lakers through TWG Global, valuing the iconic NBA franchise at an unprecedented $10 billion.

The deal marks the end of an era for the Buss family, long-time stewards of the Lakers brand since the days of Jerry Buss, and signals a transformative shift in how elite sports franchises are valued, operated, and leveraged in global investment markets.

This deep-dive explores how Mark Walter’s bid, the Buss family’s decision to sell, and the rise of TWG Global intersect to reshape both NBA economics and the future of sports ownership.

Who Is Mark Walter?

Who Is Mark Walter?

From Midwestern Roots to LA Sports Empire

Mark Walter is the co-founder and CEO of Guggenheim Partners, a global investment and advisory firm with over $300 billion in assets under management. Originally from Iowa, Walter is known for his low-profile demeanor and high-stakes financial plays. He rose to public prominence after leading the 2012 purchase of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Sports Holdings and Net Worth

  • Net worth (2025 estimate): ~$6.5 billion
  • Co-owner of the Dodgers, Sparks (WNBA), Global Sports Venture Studio
  • Majority investor in TWG Global, a private investment group focused on media and sports

The Lakers Sale: Timeline and Structure

A $10 Billion Valuation—Breaking Records

The sale of the Los Angeles Lakers to Mark Walter’s TWG Global is based on a $10 billion valuation—the highest ever for an NBA team. The deal overtakes the Celtics’ $6 billion valuation and even surpasses valuations for many NFL teams.

Lakers Sold: New Chapter Begins at $10 Billion”

What the Deal Includes

Guggenheim Partners structures the equity and debt

TWG acquires 66% controlling interest from the Buss family

Jeanie Buss will retain a minority stake but step down from daily operations

Magic Johnson is expected to return in an advisory role

Why Did the Buss Family Sell?

From Jerry Buss to Jeanie Buss: Legacy and Pressure

Dr. Jerry Buss bought the Lakers in 1979 for just $67.5 million. Under his leadership, the team won 10 championships and became a global brand. Since his passing in 2013, Jeanie Buss has led the franchise, maintaining a family-first, legacy-driven ownership model.

But the pressures of:

  • Succession uncertainty
  • Capital demands of modern NBA ownership
  • Valuation timing

…all contributed to the decision to sell.

“End of an Era: Buss Family Steps Back”

Family Statement

“We’re proud of what the Buss name means in basketball. But it’s time to transition to a new era. Mark Walter and TWG bring the stability and ambition the Lakers need to thrive.”

What Is TWG Global?

“TWG Global: The New Face of Sports Capital”

Private Equity Meets Pro Sports

TWG Global is a venture-focused investment firm co-led by Mark Walter, focused on:

Global expansion of sports brands

Media rights acquisitions

Team ownership

Other Ventures

  • Minority stake in Premier League club
  • Investments in sports tech firms
  • AI-based performance analytics in partnership with AWS

TWG is part of a larger trend where sports teams are treated as long-term asset classes, not just passion projects.

Lakers Under New Ownership: What Changes?

Data, Deals, Dominance”

Brand Expansion and AI-Powered Strategy

Mark Walter and TWG reportedly plan to:

  • Expand the Lakers brand into international markets
  • Use AI-driven performance analytics for player development
  • Revamp digital fan engagement
  • Launch Lakers’ streaming and merchandising platforms

Leadership Restructuring

Jeanie Buss becomes “Chairperson Emeritus”

New GM and data science head to be hired

Front-office restructure to mirror “Moneyball”–style analytics teams

Comparison: Lakers vs Celtics Franchise Sales

 “Which NBA Team Is Truly the Most Valuable?”
FeatureLakers (2025)Celtics (2024)
Valuation$10 billion$6 billion
BuyerMark Walter / TWGAbu Dhabi sovereign fund
Legacy Ownership ExitBuss familyGrousbeck family
Minority StakeholdersMagic Johnson, othersTom Brady, others
NBA Revenue Rank#1#3

Verdict: The Lakers’ brand value, celebrity endorsements, and global visibility gave it a significant valuation edge over even the Celtics.

Reactions Across the League

Magic Johnson’s Response

“When the Celtics sold for $6 billion, I said to myself: The Lakers are worth at least ten. This sale proves it.”

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver

“We welcome Mark Walter and TWG as the new stewards of one of our league’s most iconic franchises.”

Players & Fans

  • Some fans are worried about corporate-style management
  • Players reportedly excited about tech-forward development plans

FAQs About the Lakers’ $10B Sale

Q: Who bought the Lakers in 2025?

A: Mark Walter and TWG Global acquired a controlling stake, valuing the team at $10 billion. Mark Walter

Q: Did Jeanie Buss sell the entire Lakers organization?

A: No, she retained a minority stake but stepped down from operations. Mark Walter

Q: What is TWG Global?

A: A private equity investment group focused on sports, co-led by Mark Walter.

Q: How much did Jerry Buss originally pay for the Lakers?

A: Just $67.5 million in 1979. Mark Walter

Q: Will the team stay in Los Angeles?

A: Yes, there are no plans to relocate the Lakers. Mark Walter

 “$10B Legacy: The New Lakers Era Begins”

A New Era for the NBA’s Crown Jewel

The sale of the Lakers marks a turning point in NBA history. What began as a family-owned dynasty under Jerry Buss has now transitioned into the hands of financial titans. Mark Walter and TWG Global have the resources, vision, and data-driven mindset to elevate the Lakers into a global sports-tech empire.

But questions remain: Can they preserve the soul of the franchise? Will fans embrace a new corporate identity? And can success on the court match the billions spent off it?

One thing’s certain — the $10 billion Lakers sale is a defining moment in modern sports history. Mark Walter

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