Lakers Ownership: Which Buss Family Member Owns The Team?
The Los Angeles Lakers, a legendary name in the world of basketball, have a rich history deeply intertwined with the Buss family. When we talk about who in the Buss family owns the Lakers, the answer isn't as straightforward as a single name. It's a collaborative ownership, reflecting the vision of the late Dr. Jerry Buss, who transformed the Lakers into a global phenomenon. After his passing in 2013, the ownership structure transitioned to his six children. This article dives deep into the current ownership dynamics, clarifying the roles and responsibilities within the Buss family regarding the Lakers.
The Buss Family Legacy
Before diving into the specifics of who in the Buss family owns the Lakers today, it's essential to understand the foundation laid by Dr. Jerry Buss. He purchased the Lakers in 1979, ushering in an era of Showtime basketball characterized by iconic players, thrilling games, and multiple championships. Buss wasn't just an owner; he was a visionary who understood the entertainment value of the sport. He created an atmosphere that attracted celebrities and made Lakers games a must-see event. His approach revolutionized the NBA and set a new standard for franchise ownership. Dr. Buss understood that to create a truly lasting legacy you need a combination of on court success and a great atmosphere to foster the sense of community that makes a sports team more than just a team. It makes them family. He cultivated this sense of family with the players and the fans alike. When he bought the team he brought in a vision that few could understand at the time. He believed that having a star studded cast of characters on the court was just as important as the atmosphere and overall experience for the fans. This proved to be a stroke of genius, leading to decades of success and solidifying the Lakers as one of the most iconic franchises in all of sports.
The Current Ownership Structure
So, who in the Buss family owns the Lakers now? Following Dr. Buss's death, the ownership of the Lakers was divided among his six children: Jeanie Buss, Jim Buss, Johnny Buss, Joey Buss, Jesse Buss, and Janice Buss. While all six siblings inherited a share of the team, Jeanie Buss stepped into the role of controlling owner and team president. This arrangement was part of Dr. Buss's succession plan, ensuring that the Lakers remained under family control while entrusting the leadership to Jeanie, who had been actively involved in the organization for many years. Each of the Buss children plays varying roles in the organization, contributing to different aspects of the Lakers' operations. Jeanie's brothers Jim and Johnny have also been involved in management positions. Her brother Joey is the assistant general manager of the South Bay Lakers, the G League affiliate of the Los Angeles Lakers. Jesse Buss is the Director of Scouting. With all the children playing important parts, the goal is to work together to keep the Lakers as one of the premier sports franchises in the world. It is a complex plan that takes careful planning to make sure everyone is working together for a common goal.
Jeanie Buss: The Controlling Owner
To be clear about who in the Buss family owns the Lakers in a leadership capacity, it's Jeanie Buss. As the controlling owner, she holds the highest position within the Lakers organization. She is responsible for the overall strategic direction of the team, making key decisions about basketball operations, business development, and the Lakers' brand. Jeanie's journey within the Lakers organization began long before her father's passing. She started in various roles, learning the intricacies of the business from the ground up. Her experience and understanding of the Lakers' culture made her the natural choice to lead the team after her father's death. Under her leadership, the Lakers have continued to be a dominant force in the NBA, both on and off the court. With so many important decisions to be made in the current NBA, it is important to have someone at the helm who understands all aspects of the Lakers organization from top to bottom. Her strategic vision and commitment to winning have solidified her place as one of the most influential figures in the NBA. Jeanie has proven to be more than capable of continuing her father's legacy.
The Roles of Other Buss Family Members
While Jeanie Buss is the controlling owner, other Buss family members play important roles within the organization. It's crucial to understand who in the Buss family owns the Lakers in what capacity. Each sibling contributes their unique skills and expertise to different aspects of the Lakers' operations. For example, some may be involved in scouting and player development, while others focus on marketing and business partnerships. Although Jeanie is the controlling owner, the involvement of her siblings demonstrates the family's collective commitment to the Lakers' success. This collaborative approach ensures that the team benefits from a diverse range of perspectives and experiences. By working together, the Buss family aims to uphold the values and traditions that have made the Lakers one of the most respected franchises in sports. Each member brings something unique to the table, which is what makes the Lakers such a well rounded organization. They work together like a well oiled machine with one goal in mind: sustained success for the Lakers.
Ownership Percentages and Decision-Making
Understanding who in the Buss family owns the Lakers also involves considering the ownership percentages and how decisions are made. While the exact percentages are not publicly disclosed, it's understood that Jeanie Buss controls the largest share, giving her the authority to make final decisions on key matters. However, she often consults with her siblings and other members of the Lakers' leadership team before making major moves. This collaborative approach reflects the family's desire to maintain a unified front and ensure that all voices are heard. Ultimately, the goal is to make decisions that are in the best interests of the team and its fans. It's a delicate balancing act, requiring careful consideration of various factors and perspectives. By working together and respecting each other's opinions, the Buss family strives to create a positive and productive environment for the Lakers organization. This unified front starts at the top and trickles down through the rest of the organization. This creates a sense of family and community within the team, fostering a positive and productive environment.
The Future of the Lakers Under Buss Family Ownership
Looking ahead, the future of the Lakers under Buss family ownership appears bright. With Jeanie Buss at the helm, the team is well-positioned to continue its tradition of success. Her leadership, combined with the contributions of her siblings and the expertise of the Lakers' management team, provides a strong foundation for the future. The Buss family's commitment to winning, coupled with their deep understanding of the game and the entertainment industry, bodes well for the Lakers' long-term prospects. Of course, challenges and uncertainties are always present in the world of professional sports. However, the Buss family's passion for the Lakers and their unwavering dedication to excellence will undoubtedly serve them well in the years to come. This is what Dr. Jerry Buss envisioned when he set up the succession plan for his beloved Lakers. He wanted to make sure that the team he poured his heart and soul into would be in good hands for years to come.
In Conclusion
So, to reiterate who in the Buss family owns the Lakers, it's a collective effort led by Jeanie Buss as the controlling owner. While all six Buss siblings share ownership, Jeanie's leadership and vision guide the team's direction. The Buss family's legacy of success, combined with their commitment to innovation and excellence, ensures that the Lakers will continue to be a force to be reckoned with in the NBA for many years to come. The fans can rest assured that the Lakers are in good hands, and the future looks bright for one of the most iconic franchises in all of sports. It is truly a family affair, and the Buss family is dedicated to bringing championships back to Los Angeles.
