Jeanie Buss: The Inspiring Journey of the Influential Lakers Owner
The LA Lakers have become one of the most renowned franchises in NBA history, and their success is a result of hard work and dedication from both the management and players. The journey to becoming a global icon didn’t happen overnight and is a testament to the leadership of the team’s owners.
The franchise was established in 1947 but didn’t move to Los Angeles until 1960. Initially owned by Ben Berger and Morris Chalfen, the Lakers had humble beginnings. However, it was in the late 1970s when Dr. Jerry Buss took over the ownership that the team transformed into a must-see franchise.
Unfortunately, after Dr. Jerry Buss passed away in 2013, his six children inherited the majority stake he held in the LA Lakers, with each of them receiving an equal share of the 66% ownership. This inheritance, amounting to a minimum of $500 million each, has secured the Buss family’s financial future. The team itself is now worth an estimated $6 billion.
Jeanie Buss, one of Dr. Buss’ children, took over as the Lakers’ owner after her father’s passing. Apart from being a successful businesswoman, Buss has also made a name for herself in the world of sports. She has been involved in developing a wrestling promotion, a venture co-owned by David McLane. The show has enjoyed immense popularity, running for nine seasons and showing no signs of slowing down.
Buss’ journey with the Lakers has been remarkable. She served as an executive for the team in the 1990s and was part of the organization during its championship-winning years. She witnessed the glory of the Shaq-Kobe era, the back-to-back victories with Pau Gasol, and most recently, the 2020 triumph with LeBron James.
As a woman in a prominent role within the Lakers’ front office, Jeanie Buss has been an inspiration to many. Her 20-year tenure as an executive with the franchise was instrumental in her becoming the controlling owner in the 2013-14 season. In addition to her accomplishments with the Lakers, Buss won an Emmy award in 2023 for her Outstanding Documentary Series, Legacy: The True Story of the LA Lakers, which received widespread acclaim upon its release in 2022.
Buss has rightfully earned her place as one of the most influential figures in the sports world. Her leadership led the Lakers to their championship win in 2020, making her the first woman owner to achieve this feat. Buss is also actively involved in various charities and organizations, showcasing her dedication to making a positive impact beyond the basketball court.
In conclusion, Jeanie Buss’s inspiring journey as the influential owner of the LA Lakers highlights her commitment, leadership, and trailblazing spirit. She has not only carried on the legacy of her late father but has also become a role model for women in sports. As the Lakers continue to thrive under her ownership, Buss’s impact on the franchise and the sports world as a whole cannot be overstated.
