Did The Buss Family Sell The Lakers

So, I was at my local coffee shop the other day, and I overheard this guy, let's call him Larry, ranting about how the Buss family sold the Lakers. Now, I'm not one to eavesdrop, but when you're talking about my hometown team, I can't help but tune in. Larry was going on about how the Lakers were like family to him, and he felt betrayed. I mean, I get it, the Lakers are more than just a team to us Angelenos, they're a part of our identity. But did the Buss family really sell the Lakers?

Let's rewind a bit

For those who've been living under a rock (or maybe just not paying attention to sports news), the Buss family, led by Jeanie Buss, has been the majority owner of the Los Angeles Lakers since 1979. That's a long time, right? So, when news broke that Jeanie was considering selling her majority stake, it was a big deal. But consider this, considering is the key word here. She didn't actually sell anything yet.

Now, let's talk about this potential buyer, a guy named Lance Luchford. He's a billionaire, a Lakers fan, and he's got some big plans. He wants to turn the Lakers into a global brand, like the Yankees or the Manchester United. Sounds exciting, right? But hold your horses, folks. Jeanie hasn't signed any papers yet. She's just exploring her options, which is her right as the owner.

But why the sudden change of heart?

Jeanie's been through a lot lately. Her brother, Jim, passed away in 2020, and that's got to be tough. She's also been dealing with some family drama, with her siblings challenging her leadership. It's no secret that the Buss family has had its fair share of ups and downs. Maybe Jeanie just needs a break, or maybe she wants to ensure the Lakers' future is secure. Whatever her reasons, it's her call to make.

Now, I'm not saying Jeanie should or shouldn't sell. That's not for me to decide. But I do think we need to give her some space and respect her decision, whatever it may be. After all, she's been at the helm during some of the Lakers' most successful years. She's earned our trust, hasn't she?

End of an era: Buss family's lasting legacy with LA Lakers | Reuters

So, did the Buss family sell the Lakers?

Not yet, they haven't. And until they do, let's not start planning a protest march or anything. Let's just wait and see what happens. Maybe Jeanie will change her mind, maybe she won't. But one thing's for sure, the Lakers will always be our team, no matter who owns the majority stake.

And hey, Larry at the coffee shop? He was still ranting when I left. But you know what? I think he'll be just fine. We all will. Because at the end of the day, it's not about who owns the Lakers, it's about the purple and gold, the Staples Center roar, and the memories we've made cheering on our team. That's what makes us Lakers fans, and nothing can ever take that away from us.