Top 10 Most Expensive Sports Team Acquisitions: Lakers Set New Record At $10 Billion

David

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Post on Jun 21, 2025

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Lakers Set New Record! Top 10 Most Expensive Sports Team Acquisitions

The sports world is buzzing! A seismic shift in ownership has just occurred, shattering previous records and sending shockwaves through the industry. The Los Angeles Lakers have been acquired for a staggering $10 billion, marking the most expensive sports team acquisition in history. This monumental deal eclipses previous giants and redefines the landscape of sports ownership. But how does this compare to other record-breaking acquisitions? Let's delve into the top 10 most expensive sports team purchases.

The New King: Los Angeles Lakers – $10 Billion

The Lakers' acquisition for a jaw-dropping $10 billion represents a new era for the franchise. The sheer scale of this deal surpasses all previous records, highlighting the immense financial value attached to iconic sports teams and their global brand recognition. This unprecedented price tag speaks volumes about the Lakers' legacy, their massive fan base, and the lucrative potential of the NBA. The identity of the buyer remains shrouded in secrecy for now, fueling widespread speculation across the sports media.

The Top 10 Most Expensive Sports Team Acquisitions:

Below is a list of the top 10 most expensive sports team acquisitions, showcasing the incredible financial power driving the modern sports landscape. Note that valuations can vary slightly depending on the source and time of reporting.

1. Los Angeles Lakers: $10 Billion (2024)
2. Denver Broncos: $4.65 Billion (2022) – This NFL team's sale set a previous record before the Lakers' acquisition. The buyer, Rob Walton, the Walmart heir, demonstrated the incredible investment potential in professional sports.
3. Washington Commanders: $6.05 Billion (2023) – This NFL franchise changed hands amidst controversy, further highlighting the high stakes involved in major sports ownership.
4. Brooklyn Nets: ~$3.3 Billion (2019) – This NBA team's acquisition, led by Joseph Tsai, demonstrates the growing investment in the basketball market.
5. Chelsea Football Club: $3.2 Billion (2022) – The sale of this Premier League powerhouse to a consortium headed by Todd Boehly underscores the global appeal of elite soccer clubs.
6. Atlanta Braves: ~$2.4 Billion (2023) – This MLB team's sale highlights the increasing value of baseball franchises, particularly those with strong fan bases and profitable business models.
7. Phoenix Suns & Mercury: ~$4 Billion (2021) – This dual acquisition highlights strategic investments encompassing both men's and women's sports.
8. Houston Rockets: ~$2.2 Billion (2017) – This NBA team's sale demonstrated the early signs of the escalating value of professional basketball franchises.
9. Los Angeles Dodgers: ~$2 Billion (2012) – This MLB franchise's sale, while not as recent, represents a significant milestone in the history of sports acquisitions.
10. Manchester United: ~$3 Billion (Estimated completion in 2023) - While the official price may vary slightly, the expected sale price places this football giant firmly in the top 10.

The Future of Sports Ownership:

The Lakers' $10 billion acquisition signals a new paradigm in sports ownership. It signifies the ever-increasing financial power at play and the growing influence of global investment in professional sports. Expect even higher valuations for major teams in the years to come as competition for ownership increases.

What are your thoughts on this record-breaking deal? Share your predictions for future sports team acquisitions in the comments below!