Joey and Jesse Buss Exit Lakers Operations Following $10B Sale
The Los Angeles Lakers have undergone significant changes in their front office following a $10 billion sale completed in June. The departure of Joey and Jesse Buss was reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania on Thursday, signaling a reorganization within the franchise’s basketball operations department.
Changes in Lakers Leadership
Joey and Jesse Buss, who have contributed to the team for 20 years, will no longer hold their positions in the organization’s operations. Despite their exit from these roles, they will retain their minority ownership stakes in the team.
Statement from Joey and Jesse Buss
In a statement, the Buss brothers expressed gratitude for their time with the Lakers. “We are honored to have been part of this organization. Thank you to Laker Nation for embracing our family every step of the way,” they stated. “We wish things could be different with the way our time ended with the team.” Their departure follows the legacy of their father, Jerry Buss, who purchased the team in 1979 for $67.5 million and became an iconic figure in sports ownership.
The Buss Family Legacy
Jeanie Buss remains the governor of the Lakers, continuing the family’s long-standing influence within the franchise. Jerry Buss’s tenure saw the team achieve remarkable success, particularly during the Showtime era and later, under the leadership of superstars like Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant.
Contribution to the Team
During their time with the Lakers, Joey and Jesse were involved in scouting. They were instrumental in identifying talents such as Austin Reaves, Kyle Kuzma, and Jordan Clarkson. Following their exit, they are set to focus on their new venture, Buss Sports Capital, aimed at seeking partnerships in sports.
Looking Ahead
The Lakers have started the current season strong, with an 11-4 record and sitting fourth in the Western Conference. This comes even as LeBron James made his season debut only recently against the Utah Jazz.
- Key Event: Joey and Jesse Buss exit Lakers operations
- Valuation of Sale: $10 billion
- Ownership Stake: Minority ownership retained
- Team Record: 11-4
The changes within the Lakers echo a new era for the franchise while highlighting the enduring legacy of the Buss family in the NBA. As the team works to build on its early season performance, the full impact of these leadership shifts remains to be seen.
