Jeanie Galbraith McQueen isn’t just a name you hear in passing when talking about sports ownership—she’s a force of nature in the NBA world. As the controlling owner and president of the Los Angeles Lakers, she’s helped shape one of the most iconic franchises in professional basketball. Her leadership has brought the Lakers back to the top of the mountain, including a 2020 championship win that made history as the first time a female controlling owner led a team to victory. So, who exactly is Jeanie Galbraith McQueen, and why does her story matter to fans, business leaders, and sports enthusiasts alike? Let’s dive in.

Born Jeanie Marie Buss on September 26, 1961, she’s spent her life navigating the high-stakes world of professional sports. Her father, Jerry Buss, was a legendary figure in the NBA, and she grew up around the Lakers like it was her backyard. But don’t be fooled—Jeanie didn’t just ride on her dad’s coattails. She worked her way up, learning every part of the business, from ticket sales to front-office strategy. By the time she took over the Lakers, she was more than ready to lead.

Today, Jeanie Galbraith McQueen isn’t just running a team—she’s building a legacy. She’s been featured in documentaries, appeared on Netflix shows, and even inspired characters in sports dramas. She’s also navigating some of the most challenging moments in the Lakers’ history, from grieving the loss of Kobe Bryant to rebuilding the roster after tough seasons. Her story isn’t just about basketball; it’s about resilience, leadership, and doing things your way—even when the spotlight is blazing bright.

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Table of Contents

• Biography of Jeanie Galbraith McQueen
• Personal Details & Bio Data
• Career Achievements and Influence
• Recent Developments and Media Presence
• Frequently Asked Questions

Biography of Jeanie Galbraith McQueen

Jeanie Galbraith McQueen, known professionally as Jeanie Buss, is an American sports executive who has made waves far beyond the hardwood of the NBA. Her journey began in Southern California, where she was raised in a family deeply rooted in real estate and sports ownership. Her father, Dr. Jerry Buss, was a real estate mogul who eventually bought the Los Angeles Lakers in 1979, and Jeanie was right there beside him, learning the ropes from an early age.

By the time she was in her twenties, Jeanie had already worked in nearly every department of the Lakers organization. She wasn’t handed a title—she earned it through sweat equity and a deep understanding of what makes a sports franchise tick. After her father passed away in 2013, she became the controlling owner of the Lakers, stepping into a role that few women had held before her. It was a big move, and many wondered if she could handle the pressure. Spoiler alert: she did, and then some.

Her leadership has been marked by bold decisions, from coaching hires to player acquisitions. In 2020, under her watch, the Lakers won their 17th championship, tying the Boston Celtics for the most in NBA history. That victory wasn’t just a win on the scoreboard—it was a win for representation, proving that a woman could lead a major sports franchise to the pinnacle of success.

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Personal Details & Bio Data

Career Achievements and Influence

Jeanie Galbraith McQueen has been a key figure in the Lakers’ success for decades. She’s been involved in some of the most important decisions in the franchise’s history, from bringing in big-name players like Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant to hiring Phil Jackson as head coach. Her role as a decision-maker helped shape the Lakers into the powerhouse they are today.

One of her most notable achievements came in 2020 when the Lakers won the NBA championship in the Orlando bubble. It was a surreal season, with no fans and strict health protocols due to the pandemic, yet the team thrived under her leadership. That win was her sixth NBA title as an executive, and the first she oversaw as the sole controlling owner. It was a huge moment—not just for the Lakers, but for women in sports leadership across the board.

• Won 6 NBA championships as an executive
• Became Lakers president in 2013
• Named one of the most influential women in sports
• Executive producer on Netflix’s “Running Point”
• Featured in the Lakers’ documentary “Legacy”

Her influence extends beyond basketball. She’s appeared in documentaries, worked with streaming platforms, and is often called upon for interviews about leadership and business strategy. She’s not just a sports owner—she’s a brand in her own right.

Recent Developments and Media Presence

In recent years, Jeanie Galbraith McQueen has been in the spotlight for more than just wins and losses. After the tragic passing of Kobe Bryant in 2020, she spoke openly about how much he meant to the Lakers and to her personally. His death hit the entire organization hard, and her leadership during that time was a testament to her emotional strength and commitment to the team.

She’s also been working on a documentary titled “Legacy,” which explores the Lakers’ history and her role in shaping it. The film offers fans an inside look at what goes on behind the scenes, and it’s been well-received for its honesty and depth. Additionally, she served as an executive producer for Netflix’s “Running Point,” a sports drama that drew inspiration from her life and career.

There’s also been some talk about how long she’ll remain in her role. According to reports from ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne, Jeanie plans to stay involved with the Lakers for “at least a number of years,” giving fans confidence that the team is in stable hands for the foreseeable future.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Jeanie Galbraith McQueen’s role with the Lakers?

Jeanie Galbraith McQueen is the controlling owner and president of the Los Angeles Lakers. She oversees all major decisions for the franchise, including player personnel, coaching hires, and overall team direction. Her leadership has been pivotal in multiple NBA championships, including the 2020 win that made her the first female owner to lead a team to victory.

Has Jeanie Galbraith McQueen won any championships?

Yes, Jeanie Galbraith McQueen has won six NBA championships as an executive. The most recent was in 2020, where the Lakers won their 17th title, tying them with the Boston Celtics for the most in NBA history. That win was especially significant as it marked her first championship as the Lakers’ sole controlling owner.

What else is Jeanie Galbraith McQueen known for besides the Lakers?

Besides her work with the Lakers, Jeanie Galbraith McQueen is also known for her media appearances and involvement in sports documentaries. She was an executive producer on Netflix’s “Running Point,” which drew inspiration from her life and career. She’s also been featured in the Lakers’ documentary “Legacy,” offering a behind-the-scenes look at the team’s journey through the years.

Learn more about the Los Angeles Lakers on their official site.

Learn more about Jeanie Buss’s leadership legacy on our site.

Check out the Lakers’ championship history for more details on their NBA titles.