Bob Iger and Joshua Kushner propose $12.5 billion purchase of Los Angeles Lakers

Bob Iger and Joshua Kushner have submitted a bid to acquire a controlling interest in the Los Angeles Lakers, valuing the franchise at about $12.5 billion, according to a report first published by ESPN. The proposal follows a long-standing personal and professional relationship that began when Iger’s wife, Willow Bay, befriended model Karlie Kloss in 2018, leading to an introduction between Iger and Kushner.

Iger, 75, said the two connected quickly over lunch in New York, describing Kushner as “humble, extremely smart, easy to connect with.” Kushner, 41, and Iger issued a joint statement saying they are “deeply honored for the opportunity to become stewards of the Los Angeles Lakers, one of the most iconic sports franchises in the world.”

The deal would build on Kushner’s prior NBA investments, including minority stakes in the Memphis Grizzlies and Miami Heat, and Iger’s recent involvement with Kushner’s investment firm Thrive, where he served briefly as a venture partner and later joined a group of investors that purchased a stake in Thrive itself. Iger remains on Disney’s board and is slated to receive the company’s highest honor, a Disney Legend award, later this month.

The Lakers, owned by a consortium led by Mark Walter after a $10 billion sale last year, have not won a championship since 2010 and recently saw star LeBron James leave for the Philadelphia 76ers. The proposed acquisition would be the latest in a series of high-value transactions involving the franchise.

“He’s a friend, but I also love the ambition. It’s infectious.” – Bob Iger

If completed, the partnership would represent the most expensive NBA transaction to date and could signal a new era of ownership for the storied team.