Meet Mark Walter, the Billionaire Buying the Lakers in a Historic $10 Billion Deal

In a move that sends shockwaves across American sports, billionaire Mark Walter has agreed to purchase the Los Angeles Lakers in a record-shattering $10 billion deal — the largest sale in U.S. sports history. The transaction signals the end of the Buss family’s storied reign over one of the NBA’s most iconic franchises.

So, who is Mark Walter, the man behind this blockbuster move?

From Finance to Franchise Mogul

Born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Walter’s journey to the pinnacle of the business and sports world began with a solid academic foundation. He earned his undergraduate degree from Creighton University and later obtained a J.D. from Northwestern University. Today, he serves as CEO of Guggenheim Partners, a global financial services firm managing over $325 billion in assets, and leads TWG Global, a multinational holding company.

A Veteran in Sports Ownership

Walter is no stranger to owning major sports franchises. In 2012, he led the purchase of the Los Angeles Dodgers for $2.15 billion — a record at the time — through Guggenheim Baseball Management. Under his leadership, the Dodgers have become a dominant force, claiming World Series titles in 2020 and 2024.

His influence extends far beyond baseball. Walter co-owns the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks alongside Magic Johnson, co-leads the BlueCo consortium that took over Chelsea FC in 2022, and played a pivotal role in launching the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL), whose championship trophy, the “Walter Cup,” bears his and his wife Kimbra’s name.

A Global Sports Portfolio

Walter’s reach spans nearly every corner of the sports world. He’s a part-owner of the Cadillac Formula 1 team, which will begin competition in 2026, and has been active in philanthropic efforts, including the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation and “LA Rises,” a wildfire recovery initiative he co-founded with Johnson and entertainment executive Casey Wasserman.

What’s Next for the Lakers?

With this monumental acquisition, Walter adds one of the most valuable and recognizable brands in sports to his impressive portfolio. As the Lakers look to reclaim their championship pedigree after a period of inconsistency, Walter’s entrance may mark a new era of ambition and renewal for the franchise.

The world will be watching — and Mark Walter is ready to lead.