Who Runs This Joint? The Lakers Ownership Saga
So, you wanna know who's the big cheese, the top dog, the capo di tutti capi of the Los Angeles Lakers? Well, buckle up, buttercup, because this is a tale as tangled as LeBron James' hairline.
The Buss Family Circus
Let's start with the obvious: the Buss family is the royal bloodline of the Lakers. Think of them as the Kardashians of basketball, but with way more championships and less drama (okay, maybe a little drama). The patriarch, Jerry Buss, was the original visionary who bought the team for a mere $15 million in 1979. Can you imagine? That's like buying a whole NBA team for the price of a decent house in Beverly Hills today!
Now, Jerry's kids are running the show. We've got Jeanie Buss, the boss lady, who's the controlling owner and president. She's basically the Meryl Streep of basketball executives - all poise, power, and probably a secret stash of Lakers jerseys. Then there are her siblings, Johnny, Jim, and Janie, who are also involved in the ownership. It's like a family reunion every board meeting, but with way higher stakes.
Other Players in the Game
But wait, there's more! The Buss family doesn't own the Lakers entirely. They’ve got some partners in crime, or should we say, in business. There's a group of minority owners, including Philip Anschutz, Edward P. Roski, and Patrick Soon-Shiong. These guys are like the supporting cast in a blockbuster movie - important, but not the main attraction.
So, Who's Really in Charge?
While Jeanie Buss is the controlling owner, it's safe to say that the Lakers are a family-run business with a few outside investors. It's a complex web of ownership, but hey, that's what makes it interesting, right?
How to... Lakers Ownership Edition
- How to become an NBA owner? Well, aside from winning the lottery, you'll need a serious amount of money. Like, more money than you can probably imagine.
- How to get courtside seats at a Lakers game? Your best bet is to befriend a Buss family member or win the lottery. Again.
- How to impress a Lakers fan? Know your basketball history and be able to quote Kobe Bryant without breaking a sweat.
- How to survive a Lakers game? Wear purple and gold, and be prepared to scream until your lungs give out.
- How to become a Lakers legend? Score a game-winning shot, win multiple championships, and have a killer nickname.
So there you have it, folks. The Lakers ownership is a complex and fascinating story. It's a tale of family, business, and basketball. And if you're lucky enough to be part of it, even as a fan, you're in for one heck of a ride.