Mark Walter: New Lakers Owner in $10B Deal

So, who exactly is Mark Walter? And what does this change mean for the future of the Lakers?

The Deal: From Silent Stakeholder to Controlling Owner

Walter was no stranger to the Lakers before this deal. In 2021, he quietly acquired roughly 26% of the team through a deal with Philip Anschutz, which came with a key clause: the right of first refusal. If the Buss family ever chose to sell their majority interest, Walter would have the first opportunity to buy it. And that day finally came.

This week, reports confirmed that Walter exercised that right, acquiring majority control of the Lakers. As per ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, speculation around a potential sale had existed since at least 2022. Now, it’s official. The Lakers, one of the most valuable sports franchises in the world, are under new ownership.

Who Is Mark Walter?

Mark Walter is the CEO and chairman of TWG Global, a diversified holding company with investments across sports, entertainment, and philanthropy. He co-founded Guggenheim Partners, a global financial services firm managing more than $300 billion in assets.

Despite his immense influence and wealth, Walter is famously private. He rarely speaks to the press and avoids public appearances. When his group bought the Dodgers in 2012, Walter refused to speak with the Los Angeles Times. In a rare interview with the Chicago Tribune, he admitted, “I’m a fairly quiet and private person. I haven’t sought publicity… I just keep my head down and work.”

This low-key approach has earned him a reputation as a behind-the-scenes leader who empowers professionals to run operations while providing strong financial backing and vision.

Track Record of Success: The Dodgers Era

Walter’s impact on the Los Angeles Dodgers is perhaps the best indicator of what Lakers fans can expect. In 2012, he led a consortium—including Magic Johnson—that purchased the Dodgers out of bankruptcy for $2.15 billion.

Since then, the team has enjoyed a golden era. Under Walter’s ownership:

• The Dodgers won the World Series in 2020 and 2024.
• They made numerous playoff appearances.
• The team became known for aggressive spending and blockbuster trades.
• They signed superstar Shohei Ohtani, among other marquee names.

Walter’s commitment to winning was clear from the start. “I’m not trying to save a dollar,” he once said. “I’d rather say we have a great team and maybe spend a little too much.”

And fans took notice. In a 2023 survey by Casino.ca, he was ranked the most liked owner in Major League Baseball.

Global Sports Portfolio: More Than Just the Lakers

While owning the Dodgers and now the Lakers would be impressive on their own, Walter’s sports empire stretches far beyond Los Angeles.

WNBA: Los Angeles Sparks

In 2014, Walter teamed up again with Magic Johnson to save the Los Angeles Sparks, a founding team of the WNBA. At the time, the franchise was at risk of relocating or folding. Walter and Johnson stepped in to purchase the team and ensure it stayed in L.A. Their efforts paid off when the Sparks won the WNBA Championship in 2016.

“This team and its great players should remain a part of the sports fabric of this wonderful city,” Walter said in a WNBA press release.
Source: WNBA Official Press Release

Premier League and Ligue 1: Chelsea FC & RC Strasbourg

Walter also has a significant presence in global football (soccer). Through his holding company BlueCo, he holds a 12.7% stake in Chelsea FC, a Premier League powerhouse. He also co-owns RC Strasbourg Alsace, a French Ligue 1 club.

These investments show Walter’s long-term interest in expanding his influence across global sports.

Motorsports: Formula 1, IndyCar, and More

Through TWG Motorsports, Walter has financial stakes in:

• The Cadillac Formula 1 Team
• Andretti Global (IndyCar)
• Wayne Taylor Racing (sports car racing)

A Strong Advocate for Women’s Sports

Walter is more than just a businessman; he’s also a staunch supporter of women’s sports. In 2024, he pledged $5.5 million to the Women’s Sports Foundation, saying that words are not enough—investment is essential.

He also helped launch the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) alongside tennis legend Billie Jean King and Ilana Kloss, further cementing his legacy as a progressive figure in the sports ownership landscape.

Philanthropy and Community Work

Walter’s influence extends far beyond arenas and stadiums. He’s significantly contributed to public welfare, particularly in California and Chicago.

LA Rises Initiative

In response to devastating California wildfires, Walter’s Mark Walter Family Foundation and the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation committed up to $100 million for recovery efforts through the LA Rises campaign.

“Los Angeles will rise again — stronger, more united, and more resilient than ever,” said Governor Gavin Newsom.
Source: California Governor’s Office

$50 Million for LADF

Walter also donated $50 million to the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation, which focuses on education, healthcare, homelessness, and social justice initiatives across L.A. County.

Chicago Roots, National Impact

Though now tied deeply to Los Angeles, Walter was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and educated at Northwestern University in Chicago. He continues to support causes in the Midwest, including the Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago Hope Academy, and Urban Students Empowered.

What This Means for the Lakers

Despite the ownership change, Jeanie Buss is expected to remain Governor of the team, at least for now. However, questions remain regarding how involved Walter will be in day-to-day basketball operations, and what changes—if any—will come to the front office.

Given his track record, it’s likely that Walter will continue his model of hiring competent executives and supporting them with resources and freedom. He doesn’t micromanage. He funds. And he builds. Lakers fans, then, may see a more business-driven yet quietly assertive approach to franchise development.

Final Thoughts: A New Era for Lakers Basketball

Mark Walter’s takeover of the Los Angeles Lakers marks the beginning of a potentially transformative chapter for the storied franchise. With billions in backing, a legacy of winning in baseball, and a global network of sports investments, Walter brings both experience and financial muscle to the table.

More importantly, his leadership style—low on drama, high on results—might be exactly what the Lakers need as they navigate a competitive NBA landscape in the post-LeBron era.

Want to Learn More?

• Guggenheim Partners Official Website
• TWG Global Profile
• Dodgers Foundation
• BlueCo Ownership Details – Chelsea FC
• Women’s Sports Foundation Announcement

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