Buss family refutes Jeanie, states clear intention to sell Lakers

One day after Jeanie Buss contested her siblings attempting to sell the family’s shares of the Lakers, the rest of the Buss family made it clear they aren’t backing down.  

Jim, Johnny, Janie, Joey and Jesse Buss issued a statement on Tuesday afternoon: “The Los Angeles Lakers have never been just a basketball team. They have been one of the greatest privileges of our lives. Our focus has always been on what we believe is best for the Lakers, the fans who have supported this franchise for generations and the greater Los Angeles community.

Jim Buss and his sister Jeanie Buss of the Los Angeles Lakers attend a news conference where Dwight Howard was introduced as the newest member of the team at the Toyota Sports Center in El Segundo, California, on Friday, August 10, 2012. The Lakers acquired Howard from the Orlando Magic in a four-team trade. (Getty Images North America) Getty Images

“Johnny, Jimmy, Janie, Joey and Jesse have made the decision to sell the family’s remaining stake, and we remain united in that decision. We intend to move forward thoughtfully, respectfully and through the appropriate process.”

Jeanie’s siblings agreed to sell their 17.8% stake of the Lakers to Josh Kushner and Bob Iger, who are slated to become the franchise’s majority co-owners after agreeing to buy the Lakers from current majority owner Mark Walter. 

“We have tremendous respect for Bob Iger and Josh Kushner and believe they understand what the Lakers represent to Los Angeles and our incredibly loyal fan base,” the statement added. “We are confident they will honor everything this franchise stands for while building upon the foundation our father created.”