46 years later, the majority ownership of the iconic Los Angeles Lakers franchise will change hands.
Under the Bass Family, the LA Lakers have won 11 NBA championships since 1979, but it was clear that the team needed a fresh air.
The wish was fulfilled as Jeanie Buss agreed to sell his team to mark Walter at a record price of $10 billion.
For those who don’t know who Mark Walter is, he is currently the owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, and the franchise has already won two World Series since taking over the team in 2012.
17-time NBA champions, Purple and Gold are one of the most iconic franchises in league history.
The organization recently unveiled the Larry O’Brien Trophy in 2020, but it’s no secret that the team needs a massive overhaul.
Before talking about her expectations for Walter, ESPN’s Michael Wilbon praised Johnny for her run as the majority owner of the franchise since Dr. Jerry Bass passed away.
“Genie Bass didn’t keep it a secret, she said she wasn’t going to do this forever,” Wilbon told the sports centre.
He added: “The Lakers are in such great hands, the Lakers and Celtics are the pillars of the NBA forever built, and Jeannie continued after her father passed away 10 years ago, which was no surprise.”
Taking over Bass family legacy to Walter, Wilbon said:
“In the world’s entertainment capital, speaking of great hands, the Dodgers are quickly rolling in the daily conflicts of life. And now he’s going to do it with the Lakers. The train keeps rolling.”
It doesn’t hide the fact that the Lakers need to improve in some departments, such as fixing the reputation of the front office.
But first: After buying the Lakers in bulk for $10 billion, Walter issued a statement addressing the purple and gold fan base.
“The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the most successful and admired franchises in sports history. I couldn’t be more excited to partner with her and the entire management team, seeing the organization grow under Johnny’s leadership.
“I am committed to supporting the franchise’s iconic status by continuing to bring culture, community and entertainment to Lakers fans,” Walter said through the Los Angeles Times.
Combining this with the fact that LeBron James and Luca Donsic are excited about the news, it’s not surprising that the Lakers will return to Glory Day after the remaining decade.