Following the Buss family’s decision to sell their controlling stake in the Los Angeles Lakers at a record $10 billion valuation, a detailed report examined the reasoning behind the sale and uncovered tension between her LeBron James.
One of the most notable revelations was that Jeanie Buss’ relationship with LeBron has reportedly been strained for years.
The report outlined several points of friction, including James’ lack of accountability for the Russell Westbrook trade, ongoing contract-related tension, and what was described as a lack of appreciation after the Lakers drafted his son, Bronny James, in 2024.
It even claimed Buss explored the possibility of trading LeBron back in 2022.
As speculation grew, Buss released a statement addressing the report and her relationship with James.
Lakers governor Jeanie Buss issued this statement to The Athletic in response to today’s ESPN story, which includes reporting about her relationship with LeBron James.
“It’s really not right, given all the great things LeBron has done for the Lakers, that he has to be pulled into my family drama,” Jeanie Buss said. “To say that it wasn’t appreciated is just not true and completely unfair to him.”
Buss and James have long appeared aligned publicly, working together through a championship in 2020 and several turbulent seasons since.
However, Wednesday’s report painted a very different picture, one of quiet frustration and unresolved tension at the highest level of the organization.
Despite selling the majority stake, Buss is expected to remain the Lakers’ Governor for at least the next five years, meaning her working relationship with James still matters.
With LeBron possibly entering his final season in purple and gold, maintaining stability remains critical as the Lakers battle through a tight Western Conference playoff race.
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