Following the passing of Dr. Jerry Buss, the Lakers held an afternoon press conference today in Los Angeles, during which Buss family spokesman Bob Steiner and Lakers vice president of public relations John Black addressed the media. Mike Trudell of Lakers.com brought us the key points, via Twitter:
- According to Black, Jerry Buss has had a plan in place for years for when he can no longer run the team. "The future of the organization will remain unchanged," says Black.
- Jim Buss will continue to run the basketball side of the Lakers, while Jeanie Buss will continue to run the business side, according to Black.
- Jim Buss, GM Mitch Kupchak, and the Lakers' staff will continue to handle the basketball decision-making for the club.
- The controlling ownership of the Lakers, which is about 65-66% of the franchise, has been passed on to a trust on behalf of Jerry Buss' six children. It will be managed by Jeanie, Jim, and Johnny Buss.
- As I noted earlier today, the Buss family has previously said they have no interest in selling the Lakers, and will carry out their father's wishes.