What happened: Prospective buyers have encountered no capital shortages in assembling funds for the $12.5 billion purchase of the Los Angeles Lakers. Josh Kushner and Bob Iger are offering minority equity stakes starting at $250 million each to build out the incoming ownership group. Multiple people with direct knowledge confirmed that capital commitments for the record transaction remain firmly in place.

Why it matters: A $12.5 billion valuation would represent the largest transaction for any sports franchise in history, establishing a new pricing ceiling across the NBA. Securing the required capital without delay clears a path toward league review without protracted financial restructuring. Finalizing the investor group also provides stability for basketball operations as the franchise navigates the regular season.

What to watch: The ownership group will continue finalizing its roster of minority partners before submitting the deal to the NBA Board of Governors for formal approval. Los Angeles returns to the court against Golden State in Emirates NBA Cup group play.