Lakers Governor Jeanie Buss’ family rift grows as siblings issue scathing letter after $12.5 billion sale

Five Buss family siblings have formally opposed Los Angeles Lakers Governor Jeanie Buss’ legal petition trying to block the sale of the family's remaining 17.8% team stake. Jimmy, Johnny, Janie, Joey, and Jesse Buss voted to sell the Trust's shares following a $12.5 billion franchise transaction to Bob Iger and Joshua Kushner, releasing a joint statement declaring Jeanie's court challenge legally and factually baseless.

Jeanie petitioned the Los Angeles Superior Court to prevent the sale, which would reduce the family's ownership below the 15% threshold required by NBA rules to retain her role as Governor. While a court hearing scheduled for December 6, 2026, allows Jeanie to open the 2026 season in charge, losing the case would end 47 years of Buss family control.