Jerry Buss Net Worth (Updated 2025).
Jerry Buss, a name that echoes through the hallowed halls of NBA history, began his career in an unlikely fashion. Born in 1933, Buss didn’t initially set out to become a sports mogul. Instead, he earned a Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of Southern California, a testament to his academic prowess. However, his entrepreneurial spirit led him to entrepreneurship, where he dabbled in various businesses, including a successful aerospace company. It was during this time that Buss discovered his true passion: real estate. He invested heavily in properties, including the iconic Forum in Inglewood, California, which would later become the home of the Los Angeles Lakers.
Buss’s fame began to rise when he purchased the Lakers in 1979. At the time, the team was struggling, both on and off the court. However, Buss saw potential and decided to invest heavily in the franchise. He hired legendary coach Pat Riley and assembled a powerhouse team, including Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. The Lakers, under Buss’s ownership, became a dominant force in the NBA, winning multiple championships and turning the team into a global brand. Buss’s innovative marketing strategies, such as the “Showtime” era, also made him a household name in the sports world. His impact on the NBA was so significant that he became known as the “Father of Modern Basketball.”
**Jerry Buss’s Current Net Worth (2025)**
As of 2025, Jerry Buss’s net worth is estimated to be around $600 million. Despite his passing in 2013, his estate and business ventures continue to generate significant income.
**Career**
Jerry Buss, a renowned American businessman, is best known for his ownership of the Los Angeles Lakers, one of the most successful NBA franchises. He purchased the team in 1979 and led them to 10 NBA championships. Buss was also a successful real estate developer, with numerous properties in the Los Angeles area.
**Other Ventures**
Buss’s business acumen extended beyond sports and real estate. He was a co-founder of Great Western Forum, a sports and entertainment arena, and also owned the Los Angeles Strings, a World TeamTennis franchise. Additionally, he was a part-owner of the Los Angeles Kings, an NHL team.
**Assets**
Buss’s assets were primarily in real estate and sports teams. His most valuable asset was the Los Angeles Lakers, worth an estimated $4 billion in 2021. He also owned numerous commercial and residential properties in the Los Angeles area, with an estimated value of over $200 million.
**Annual Income**
Before his passing, Buss’s annual income was primarily derived from his ownership of the Los Angeles Lakers. In 2012, Forbes estimated the Lakers’ value at $900 million, generating an operating income of $130 million. Buss’s estate continues to generate income from his real estate holdings and other ventures.
Frequently Asked Questions about Jerry Buss
**Q1: What was Jerry Buss’ net worth?**
Jerry Buss’ net worth was estimated to be around $600 million.
**Q2: How did Jerry Buss make his fortune?**
Jerry Buss made his fortune primarily through real estate investments and owning the Los Angeles Lakers basketball team.
**Q3: When did Jerry Buss buy the Los Angeles Lakers?**
Jerry Buss bought the Los Angeles Lakers in 1979.
**Q4: What other teams did Jerry Buss own?**
In addition to the Lakers, Jerry Buss also owned the Los Angeles Kings of the National Hockey League from 1987 to 1995.
**Q5: What was Jerry Buss’ role with the Lakers?**
Jerry Buss served as the owner and chairman of the Los Angeles Lakers until his death in 2013. He was also the team’s governor in the NBA.
**Q6: What is the Jerry Buss Legacy LA Award?**
The Jerry Buss Legacy LA Award is an annual award given to a Lakers player who best represents the qualities and achievements that Jerry Buss stood for, including leadership, work ethic, and community involvement.
**Q7: Where was Jerry Buss born?**
Jerry Buss was born in Evanston, Illinois.
**Q8: What was Jerry Buss’ education background?**
Jerry Buss earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of Wyoming and a Ph.D. in physical chemistry from the University of Oklahoma.
**Q9: What was Jerry Buss’ cause of death?**
Jerry Buss passed away from cancer on February 18, 2013, at the age of 80.
**Q10: How many children did Jerry Buss have?**
Jerry Buss had six children, including Jeanie Buss, who is the current controlling owner of the Los Angeles Lakers.
