Luka Doncic, Magic Johnson react to Lakers’ $12.5 billion sale

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Luka Doncic, Magic Johnson react to Lakers’ $12.5 billion sale

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports
By Matt Wadleigh | Last updated Aug 12, 2026 2:49 PM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers are changing owners again after another sale.

On Wednesday, reports surfaced that American businessman Josh Kushner and Bob Iger are purchasing the franchise for $12.5 billion, a new record for a U.S. sports team.

Lakers star Luka Doncic will now have five owners in his last four years, but he reacted on social media after the news surfaced.

Being a Laker means everything to me, and I’m excited to get back on the court and bring a championship to LA. I’ve gotten used to big changes over these last few years, but I know that no matter what, there is no limit to the potential of this iconic franchise. I look forward to…
— Luka Dončić (@lukadoncic) August 12, 2026

Mark Walter purchased the Lakers from the Buss family in June 2025 for $10 billion, and he is now selling the team after just one year.

Lakers legend Magic Johnson also reacted to the sale, and he says he has known former Disney CEO Bob Iger “personally.”

Laker fans, you couldn’t have two better owners. I’ve known Bob personally for over 40 years – he has always loved the Lakers and basketball and he will bring championships back to LA.
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) August 12, 2026

As for Doncic, he began his career with the Dallas Mavericks before the stunning blockbuster trade sent him to LA, so he has seen plenty of changes in just a few seasons.

Luka Doncic has now played for 5 different owners in <3 years:

DAL- Mark Cuban
DAL- The Adelson family
LAL- Jeanie Buss
LAL- Mark Walter
LAL- Kushner/Iger https://t.co/QjNmBiYQuR
— Tom Haberstroh (@tomhaberstroh) August 12, 2026

Walter was approached by the two on Sunday regarding a possible sale, and things moved quickly after that conversation, according to ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne.

It will take some time for the sale to be finalized and approved, but it seems the Lakers will be sold for the second time in just one year.

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