Jeanie Buss disputes siblings' sale of Los Angeles Lakers interest

Jeanie Buss, the governor of the Los Angeles Lakers, has filed a petition to block her five siblings from selling the family’s 17.8% interest in the NBA franchise. The dispute follows the decision by controlling owner Mark Walter to sell his majority stake to Bob Iger and Joshua Kushner for $12.5 billion.

Jeanie Buss argues that the sale by her siblings violates a 2017 court order intended to ensure she remains the controlling owner of the team. Under NBA rules, a governor must own at least 15% of the franchise. If the siblings' sale is completed, Jeanie’s ownership would drop to 3%, disqualifying her from her leadership role.

The siblings, including Janie, Joey, James, Johnny, and Jesse, issued a statement expressing unity in their decision to sell, stating they intend to move forward through the appropriate process. A court hearing to resolve the conflict between the original family trust, the 2017 court order, and the 2025 sale agreement is scheduled for November 5.