Venture capitalist Josh Kushner is now the newest owner of the Los Angeles Lakers, teaming with former Disney CEO Bob Iger to buy the franchise in a record $12.5-billion deal. This seismic shift in ownership arrives as the Lakers navigate a difficult period on the court, their most recent result being a 110-115 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on May 12, 2026. Their recent form shows just one win in their last five outings, a string of four consecutive losses.
Who is Josh Kushner and how did the deal happen?
Josh Kushner, the 41-year-old founder of Thrive Capital, built a $16.7-billion fortune by backing companies like Instagram and OpenAI. He saw a business opportunity when news broke that current Lakers and Dodgers owner Mark Walter's insurance businesses were under federal investigation. Kushner called his partner Bob Iger, and within 72 hours they struck a deal with Walter to avoid a bidding war.
Kushner's firm manages over $65 billion. His investments include tech giants like SpaceX and defense contractor Anduril. People who work with him credit his business sense and intense work ethic. Iger said he was immediately impressed by Kushner's limitless curiosity. This quality helped draw the partnership together for the massive NBA acquisition.
Why does this matter for the Los Angeles Lakers?
The ownership transition brings immense financial stability and a long-term vision from a founder-focused investor. Kushner and Iger's move secures the franchise's future amid the uncertainty surrounding the previous ownership group. For the Lakers organization, focused on returning to NBA championship contention, this provides a solid foundation off the court.
On the court, the team needs a turnaround. Their 1W-4L record in the last five games, including that 110-115 loss to the Thunder, highlights current struggles. Fans can track the team's progress in the [standings](/standings) as they look to improve their perimeter defense and offensive efficiency.
What challenges has Kushner faced?
Kushner's rise wasn't smooth. He's dealt with being labeled a 'nepo baby' due to his famous family. His father, a wealthy developer, was sentenced to prison for tax evasion. As a registered independent and Democratic donor, he also had to avoid entanglement with the Trump administration where his brother Jared worked.
This was complicated by his wife, supermodel Karlie Kloss, who is a vocal Democrat. After Trump's 2016 election, former Harvard Business School dean Nitin Nohria advised Kushner to stay focused on his business and become as invisible as possible to avoid the political distraction.
What comes next for the Lakers under new ownership?
The immediate focus will be supporting the basketball operations team to reverse the team's recent form. With a lost last four games, addressing roster needs and coaching strategy becomes urgent. The new ownership's deep pockets and strategic mindset could influence future player acquisitions and facility investments.
Kushner retains a low-key demeanor but is now thrust into the sports spotlight he usually avoids. His partnership with Bob Iger suggests a steady, calculated approach to running one of the NBA's most iconic franchises. Fans awaiting the next game can check the upcoming [fixtures](/fixtures) for the team's chance to break their losing streak and start a new chapter.
