The Los Angeles Lakers are set to raise season-ticket prices significantly for the 2026-27 season under new majority owner Mark Walter, ESPN’s Dave McMenamin reported on Saturday, February 21. The increases mark the first major financial move since Walter’s $10 billion acquisition of the franchise.
Season-ticket holders in the 300 level have received notices showing a jump from $6,192 in 2025-26 to $9,035 for next season, a 45.9% increase compared with 12.7% in the previous renewal cycle. The Lakers confirmed the adjustments in a statement, citing current market demand and pricing trends.
The changes come after Walter officially completed the purchase in October 2025, ending the Buss family’s 46-year tenure as controlling owners. Jeanie Buss remains team governor with a minority stake exceeding 15%, ensuring her oversight of day-to-day operations continues.
Walter, who also serves as CEO of TWG Global and co-owns the Los Angeles Dodgers, has been a minority Lakers stakeholder since 2021. He described Buss as a key partner in preserving the franchise’s legacy, and the sale positions the Lakers as the world’s most valuable sports team.
The team’s operational changes have accelerated under Walter’s direction. Longtime executive Tim Harris and other Buss family executives have departed. Analysts note that the price adjustments align with Walter’s goal to maximize returns on the record-setting purchase.
Despite the planned increases, the Lakers continue to draw strong attendance. Through the first 26 home games of 2025-26, the team averaged 18,877 fans per game, according to ESPN Research.
The Lakers currently hold a 34-21 record, placing fifth in the Western Conference.
Ticket-holders affected by the 2026-27 pricing surge face the challenge of deciding whether to renew under the new structure, with the 45.9% hike highlighting the premium placed on Lakers access in the wake of the historic ownership transition.
