Luka Doncic receives heartfelt two-word reaction from Lakers boss after blockbuster franchise deal
Jeanie Buss needed only two words to back Luka Doncic after the Lakers’ second ownership change in under two years. She replied to his statement on X, adding purple and gold heart emojis, after news broke that Josh Kushner and Bob Iger have agreed to buy the franchise at a $12.5 billion valuation.The pending sale arrives about 14 months after Mark Walter took controlling interest from the Buss family at a $10 billion valuation, and just weeks after LeBron James left for the Philadelphia 76ers. That leaves Doncic as the unquestioned face of the franchise during its third ownership transition since he arrived in Los Angeles.
Jeanie Buss sends two-word message for Luka Doncic
Jeanie Buss shared, “Perfectly said 💛💜.” It was a short reply by design. Rather than address the uncertainty around another change at the top, she chose to amplify Doncic’s own words about staying committed to the franchise. “Being a Laker means everything to me,” Doncic wrote, adding that he’s gotten used to upheaval over the past few years but still sees no ceiling on what the organization can become. He said he’s looking forward to meeting Kushner and Iger to start building toward a title together.He added, “And I’m excited to get back on the court and bring a championship to LA. I’ve gotten used to big changes over these last few years, but I know that no matter what, there is no limit to the potential of this iconic franchise. I look forward to meeting Josh and Bob so we can get to work building something special in LA together.”Buss, who was central to trading for Doncic in February 2025 and to signing him to a three-year, $165 million extension that August.
What the Kushner-Iger deal means for the Lakers
Variety confirmed the agreement, which still requires Thrive Capital’s due diligence and NBA approval before it closes. Kushner, who also holds a minority stake in the Miami Heat, and Iger, the former Disney CEO now advising Thrive, framed the purchase as a continuation rather than a break from the past. “We have immense respect for the leadership and vision of Jerry and Jeanie Buss,” they said in a joint statement, pledging to build on that foundation and serve the team, its fans and Los Angeles.The Buss family will keep a minority stake, preserving a link to the franchise that dates to Jerry Buss’ 1979 purchase. The Los Angeles Times has reported Jeanie Buss is expected to stay on as governor for at least five years, though the full front-office structure under the incoming owners hasn’t been spelled out.
What happens next for the Lakers
Whether Kushner and Iger eventually reshape the front office Walter rebuilt remains unanswered, and Buss didn’t address it Wednesday. What she did settle, in six words, was where the franchise’s most important player stands.Doncic wants a championship in Los Angeles and a seat at the table with the new owners.
