How Much Does It Cost to Own the Lakers? Or, How to Become a Billionaire with a Basketball Team
So, you want to own the Lakers, huh? Well, buckle up, because this isn't your average garage sale. We're talking about a franchise that’s practically a religion in Los Angeles. Let’s break down the cost of this heavenly purchase.
The Price Tag: More Than a Pretty Penny
First off, let's get the obvious out of the way: it's expensive. Like, really expensive. When the Buss family sold a controlling stake in the Lakers in 2021, it fetched a cool $5 billion. That’s enough to buy a small country, or a really, really big yacht. Or both. But hey, who needs a yacht when you own the Lakers, right?
More Than Just the Team
Buying the Lakers isn’t just about the players. You’re also buying:
- The Staples Center (or whatever they rename it): That's a hefty chunk of change on its own.
- The Lakers' rich history: You're buying the legacy of Magic, Kareem, Kobe, and Shaq. That’s priceless, but it definitely factors into the valuation.
- The Lakers' fanbase: Millions of passionate fans are part of the deal. That’s a lot of jersey sales.
The Return on Investment (ROI): Hoops Dreams and Dollar Signs
Now, you might be thinking, “Okay, so it’s expensive, but it’s an investment.” And you’re right. The Lakers are a cash cow. With a massive fanbase, lucrative TV deals, and the potential for championships, the ROI can be huge. But remember, basketball is a fickle business. Injuries, trades, and unexpected upsets can impact your bottom line.
How to Become the Next Lakers Owner (Probably Not)
Okay, so you’re convinced. You want to buy the Lakers. But how?
- Win the Lottery: This is the most common method, right? Just kidding.
- Become a Billionaire: This is more realistic, but still pretty tough.
- Inherit a Fortune: This is the preferred method of many fictional sports owners.
- Develop a Time Machine: Go back to the early days of the NBA and buy the team for peanuts.
How-To Questions for Aspiring Lakers Owners
How to calculate the net worth required to buy the Lakers? Consult a financial advisor.How to negotiate with the NBA for team ownership? Hire a very, very good lawyer.How to handle the pressure of owning a legendary franchise? Probably therapy.How to balance the demands of ownership with enjoying the game? Find a good general manager.How to avoid becoming a meme? Be careful what you tweet.
So, there you have it. Owning the Lakers is a dream for many, but the reality is a bit more complex. Unless you're feeling lucky, you might want to stick to buying Lakers jerseys.
