Billionaire investor Joshua Kushner and former Disney CEO Bob Iger have stunned the sports world with a deal to buy the Los Angeles Lakers for a record $12.5 billion. If approved, the acquisition gives the new owners an iconic NBA franchise with 17 championships and deep ties to legends like Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O'Neal, and LeBron James.
Why the Lakers Purchase Is a Powerful Tax Shield for Investors
The deal is not just about owning a legendary basketball team. Sports teams have long been considered great tax shelters for wealthy individuals, and this purchase is no exception.
According to CNN Business, Ram Ahluwalia, founder of Lumida Wealth Management, said Kushner's Lakers deal has nothing to do with sports teams as an asset class.
"It's a powerful tax shield." — Ram Ahluwalia, founder of Lumida Wealth Management
What the Record-Breaking Lakers Acquisition Means for the Franchise
The $12.5 billion price tag sets a new record for an NBA franchise. For Kushner and Iger, the purchase delivers more than a trophy asset — it provides financial advantages that come with team ownership.
Tax benefits from owning a sports franchise can include depreciation of player contracts and other assets, which can offset income for the owners. This makes the deal attractive beyond the prestige of owning a team with the legacy of the Lakers.
Our Take: The Real Value Behind the Lakers Deal
To put it plainly, this deal shows how the richest investors think. Kushner and Iger are not just buying a basketball team — they are buying a financial tool. The Lakers bring global fame and a passionate fan base, but the tax advantages are a major part of the appeal.
In our view, this is a smart move for the buyers. The franchise's history with legends like Kobe Bryant and LeBron James makes it a cultural treasure, but the "powerful tax shield" is what makes it a smart business decision. For fans, the hope is that the new owners keep the team's winning tradition alive while enjoying the financial perks that come with it.
