Mark Walter reflected on his time as owner of the Los Angeles Lakers after news emerged that the franchise is being sold.

In a statement to ESPN, Walter described owning the Lakers as a major privilege and said his connection with the organization went far beyond the financial side of the investment.

“Owning the Los Angeles Lakers has been one of the great honors of my life – an extraordinary investment, but what I will carry with me is the community, the fans, and a city that treats this team as family,” Walter said.

He also thanked the people who worked with him during his time with the franchise, including Jeanie Buss and the Buss family.

“I am grateful to Jeanie Buss, the Buss family, the players, and the staff for welcoming me into this chapter. The Lakers belong to Los Angeles, and I have every confidence the best is still ahead.”

Statement to ESPN from Mark Walter: “Owning the Los Angeles Lakers has been one of the great honors of my life – an extraordinary investment, but what I will carry with me is the community, the fans, and a city that treats this team as family. I am grateful to Jeanie Buss, the… https://t.co/IMvaW0Iolr