Magic Johnson has welcomed Bob Iger and Josh Kushner as the new owners of the Los Angeles Lakers, expressing confidence that the pair can help return the franchise to championship contention.
The Lakers are entering another new era after the reported sale of the franchise to Iger and Kushner for more than $12 billion.
The development came as a major surprise around the NBA, particularly because Mark Walter only took control of the Lakers less than a year ago.
Walter’s arrival had generated significant optimism following his success as the owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers. However, the franchise is now set for another change at the top.
One of the most recognizable figures in Lakers history has already offered his support to the incoming ownership group.
Laker fans, you couldn’t have two better owners. I’ve known Bob personally for over 40 years – he has always loved the Lakers and basketball and he will bring championships back to LA.
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) August 12, 2026
Magic Johnson welcomes Lakers’ new owners
Magic Johnson publicly congratulated Iger and Kushner following news of their purchase, making it clear that he believes the new owners can help bring more championships to Los Angeles.
Johnson’s support carries particular significance given his unique connection to both the Lakers and the business world.
The five-time NBA champion became one of the most influential figures in franchise history during his playing career and later transitioned into a highly successful business career.
He has also remained closely connected to the Dodgers, where he is a minority owner, giving him a direct relationship with Walter and the broader Los Angeles sports landscape.
After previously supporting Walter’s acquisition of the Lakers, Johnson has now thrown his weight behind the franchise’s next ownership group.
Who are Bob Iger and Josh Kushner?
The new Lakers ownership group brings together two figures with extensive experience outside traditional professional sports ownership.
Bob Iger is best known for his long tenure as CEO of The Walt Disney Company. During his time leading the entertainment giant, Disney expanded its global footprint through major acquisitions including Marvel and Pixar while also launching Disney+ as the company entered the streaming era.
His business background could give the Lakers a different perspective as the franchise looks to strengthen its position both on and off the court.
Josh Kushner, meanwhile, is the founder of venture capital firm Thrive Capital and co-founder of health insurance company Oscar Health.
Kushner also has previous experience in professional sports ownership. He has been a minority investor in both the Miami Heat and Memphis Grizzlies, meaning his involvement with the Lakers will not be his first exposure to NBA ownership.
Can the new ownership bring the Lakers back to the top?
That remains the biggest unanswered question.
The Lakers are one of the NBA’s most successful franchises, but their recent seasons have not consistently matched the standards historically associated with the organization.
The arrival of Iger and Kushner creates another opportunity to reshape the franchise and establish a long-term strategy aimed at competing for championships.
There is currently little clarity over what changes the new ownership group intends to make, whether those changes will focus on basketball operations, business development or both.
Johnson’s endorsement, however, suggests that one of the franchise’s most influential former players has significant faith in their ability to deliver.
For Lakers fans, the real test will come once the new ownership group begins putting its vision into action.
If Johnson’s optimism proves justified, the latest change at the top of the organization could eventually mark the beginning of another championship era in Los Angeles.
I want to congratulate my good friend Bob Iger and Josh Kushner on their purchase of the Los Angeles Lakers!
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) August 12, 2026
