The fight over the future ownership of the Los Angeles Lakers appears to be intensifying.
Jim, Johnny, Janie, Joey, and Jesse Buss issued a joint statement Tuesday reaffirming their decision to sell the family’s remaining 17.8% ownership stake in the franchise after reports surfaced that Jeanie Buss plans to challenge the move through legal action.
“Johnny, Jimmy, Janie, Joey and Jesse have made the decision to sell the family’s remaining stake, and we remain united in that decision. We intend to move forward thoughtfully, respectfully and through the appropriate process.”
The statement marks the first public response from the five Buss siblings since reports indicated Jeanie Buss, through her attorney, intends to oppose the sale.
The disagreement centers on the family’s remaining ownership interest in the Lakers following the decision to sell the controlling stake of the franchise. While the five siblings have publicly stated they are aligned in moving forward with the transaction, Jeanie’s reported legal challenge threatens to prolong one of the most significant ownership transitions in NBA history.
The Buss family has owned the Lakers since the late Dr. Jerry Buss purchased the franchise in 1979, overseeing one of the most successful runs in professional sports. During that time, the organization captured 11 NBA championships and became one of the league’s premier global brands.
With both sides now publicly staking out their positions, the dispute appears headed toward a legal resolution that could determine the future of the Buss family’s involvement with the Lakers.
What Happens Next?
If Jeanie Buss proceeds with legal action, the sale process could face delays while the courts determine whether the transaction can move forward. Meanwhile, the five siblings maintain they are united in their decision and intend to complete the sale through what they described as the “appropriate process.”
As one of the NBA’s most storied franchises undergoes a historic ownership transition, all eyes will remain on how the Buss family’s internal dispute ultimately unfolds.
