Following the record $10 billion valuation of the Lakers, new majority owner Mark Walter seems to be distancing himself from the Bass family.
On Thursday, brothers Joey and Jesse Buss shared with ESPN that they were let go after two decades with the team, which their father, Jerry, formerly owned.
Joey held the position of assistant governor and vice president of research and development, while Jesse was the assistant general manager.
Two sources mentioned that the brothers were unhappy with their departure from the organization.
“Being part of this organization for the past 20 seasons has been a tremendous honor,” they stated to ESPN. “I want to express my gratitude to Lakers Nation for supporting our family throughout. I wish my exit had been different, and I miss having my dad’s perspective on this.”
In June, Walter, who also owns the Dodgers, reached an agreement with the Bass family to take a majority stake in the Lakers, marking a record for a U.S. professional sports franchise.
The deal, which was approved last month, allows Jeanie Buss, the brothers’ sister, to continue as the Lakers’ governor for at least five more years.
Reports suggest that Joey and Jesse will keep their minority ownership but have been scouting for the last decade. Joey served as team president and CEO of the G League’s South Bay Lakers, while Jesse was the scouting director.
Walter remarked after the sale was finalized, “The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the most iconic franchises in sports, characterized by a legacy of excellence and an unyielding drive for greatness. Few teams reflect the tradition and global impact of the Lakers. I am privileged to collaborate with Jeanie Buss as we uphold that excellence in this new chapter.”
