Jerry Buss was an iconic figure in the world of sports, transforming the Los Angeles Lakers into one of the most successful franchises in the NBA. His visionary approach to team ownership and his contributions to basketball have left an indelible mark on the sport.
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Table of Contents
Who is Jerry Buss?
Gerald Hatten “Jerry” Buss was an American businessman, investor, chemist, philanthropist, and the majority owner of the Los Angeles Lakers, under whose ownership the team won 10 NBA championships.
Early Life
Born on January 27, 1933, in Salt Lake City, Jerry Buss was raised by his divorced mother in various locations before settling in Los Angeles. Overcoming early challenges, he showcased a brilliant mind, earning a scholarship to the University of Wyoming and later a Ph.D. in physical chemistry from the University of Southern California.
Career
Jerry Buss embarked on a career that spanned various fields, from chemistry to real estate, before making his mark in the sports industry. His purchase of the Los Angeles Lakers, the Los Angeles Kings, and other sports franchises in 1979 for $67.5 million catapulted him into sports team ownership.
What Happened to Jerry Buss?
Jerry Buss passed away on February 18, 2013, due to kidney failure after battling cancer for an extended period. His death marked the end of an era for the Los Angeles Lakers and the NBA at large.
Philanthropy
Jerry Buss was not only a sports enthusiast but also a generous philanthropist. He donated $7.5 million to USC’s Department of Chemistry and supported various Lakers-related personnel during tough times, showcasing his kind-hearted nature.
Personal Life
Buss’s personal life was as colorful as his professional one. He had seven children from two marriages and other relationships. Known for his playboy lifestyle, Buss nevertheless ensured his family played significant roles within the Lakers organization.
Relationship
Jerry Buss’s romantic life was private, despite his high-profile status. He is remembered more for his contributions to sports and philanthropy than for details of his personal relationships.
Poker Player
Besides sports, Buss had a passion for poker, participating in high-stakes games and tournaments. His love for the game was well-known in the poker community, reflecting his competitive spirit.
Jerry Buss’s Entourage
Buss was known for his close-knit group of friends, affectionately dubbed “The Seven Dwarfs,” who were fixtures in the Showtime Lakers era. They contributed to the team’s spirit and were integral to its success.
Conclusion
Jerry Buss’s legacy as a transformative figure in sports, a philanthropist, and a beloved member of the Lakers family endures. His innovative approach to team ownership and commitment to excellence have left a lasting impact on the NBA.
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FAQs about Jerry Buss
- How did Jerry Buss acquire the Lakers? Buss purchased the Lakers, along with other assets, from Jack Kent Cooke in 1979, setting the stage for the team’s future success.
- What made Jerry Buss a revolutionary team owner? Buss’s introduction of the Showtime era, focusing on entertainment as well as sports excellence, revolutionized how basketball was presented and enjoyed by fans.
- How many NBA championships did the Lakers win under Buss’s ownership? The Lakers won 10 NBA championships under Jerry Buss’s ownership, solidifying their status as a basketball dynasty.
- What was Jerry Buss’s approach to philanthropy? Buss was a generous donor, supporting educational institutions like USC and providing for Lakers personnel in times of need.
- Who inherited Jerry Buss’s stake in the Lakers? Buss’s six children inherited his controlling stake in the Lakers through a trust, with each child receiving an equal vote.
