What Happened to Jim Buss?

On February 21, 2017, Jim Buss was relieved of his duties as the head of basketball operations for the Los Angeles Lakers. Despite this change, he retained his role as a part-owner of the team. However, a subsequent dispute with his sister, Jeanie Buss, over ownership matters led to further consequences for Jim.

As a result of the disagreement with Jeanie, Jim Buss was removed as a trustee of the Buss family trust. Additionally, he lost his position on the Lakers’ board of directors. This marked a significant shift in Jim’s involvement with the team, effectively reducing his influence and authority within the Lakers organization.

Joining the Lakers as an apprentice to luminaries like Jerry West and Mitch Kupchak, Buss quickly rose through the ranks, eventually becoming the vice president of basketball operations in 2005. His tenure was marked by both triumphs and controversies, emblematic of the high-pressure environment of professional sports management.

One of Buss’s notable decisions was the drafting of Andrew Bynum in 2005, a move that demonstrated his eye for talent and willingness to take risks. However, his handling of coaching transitions, including the controversial hiring of Mike D’Antoni over Phil Jackson, drew criticism from fans and pundits alike.