Jeanie Galbraith McQueen—or more widely known as Jeanie Buss—has carved out a unique place in the world of sports. She’s not just a name in the Los Angeles Lakers organization, she’s the driving force behind one of the most iconic franchises in the NBA. So, too, it's almost impossible to talk about modern sports leadership without mentioning her influence. Her journey from growing up within the Lakers family to becoming the team’s president and controlling owner is a story of resilience, strategy, and deep passion for the game.

Jeanie didn’t just inherit the Lakers and call it a day. She played a major role in shaping the team’s direction, especially during high-pressure moments. From guiding the Lakers to their 17th championship in 2020—tying the Boston Celtics for the most in NBA history—to navigating the emotional aftermath of Kobe Bryant’s passing, Jeanie has shown that she’s more than just a figurehead. She’s a leader who’s willing to make bold decisions, take calculated risks, and keep the Lakers at the top of their game.

And it’s not just about basketball. Jeanie’s presence extends into entertainment and media, too. She’s an executive producer on Netflix’s new series, “Running Point,” and her life experiences helped shape the show’s main character. That, too, shows how far her influence stretches beyond the hardwood. So, too, it’s clear that Jeanie Galbraith McQueen is a multi-dimensional force in the sports and entertainment world alike.

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Table of Contents

• Biography
• Early Life and Background
• Career and Achievements
• Personal Life and Relationships
• Jeanie Buss and Netflix’s 'Running Point'
• Frequently Asked Questions

Biography of Jeanie Galbraith McQueen

Jeanie Marie Buss was born on September 26, 1961, in Santa Monica, California. Known publicly as Jeanie Buss, she is the daughter of Jerry Buss, the late owner of the Los Angeles Lakers. Her life has been deeply intertwined with the NBA, and she’s become a major figure in both the sports and entertainment industries. Her role as the controlling owner and president of the Los Angeles Lakers puts her at the center of one of the most storied franchises in basketball history.

Early Life and Background

Jeanie grew up in a household where basketball wasn’t just a sport—it was a way of life. Her father, Jerry Buss, bought the Lakers in 1979 and transformed them into a powerhouse. So, too, Jeanie was exposed to the inner workings of a professional sports team from a very young age. She didn’t just watch the Lakers rise to fame, she lived it.

Her early exposure to the NBA helped shape her understanding of team dynamics, management, and the importance of a strong franchise identity. She started working for the Lakers while still in college, taking on roles behind the scenes. Her hands-on experience would eventually lead her to the top spot in the organization.

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She faced her fair share of challenges, especially after her father’s passing in 2013. Taking over the Lakers was no small task, especially with the weight of legacy and expectation pressing down on her. But Jeanie rose to the challenge, proving that she wasn’t just a family member with a title—she was a capable leader with a vision for the future of the team.

Career and Major Achievements

Jeanie’s career with the Lakers spans decades. She started in ticket sales and worked her way up through promotions, marketing, and eventually team operations. Her role expanded as she gained experience, and by the time her father passed away, she was already deeply involved in the team’s strategic decisions.

One of her most notable achievements came in 2020, when the Lakers won the NBA championship under her leadership. That win marked a historic moment—Jeanie became the first female controlling owner in NBA history to lead her team to a title. She’s now part of an elite group of executives with six championships to her name.

Under her leadership, the Lakers have remained competitive despite the challenges of a constantly evolving league. She’s made tough calls, from personnel decisions to public relations strategies, all while keeping the Lakers brand strong. ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne has reported that Jeanie intends to continue running the team for the foreseeable future, ensuring the Lakers’ legacy stays in capable hands.

She’s also been the subject of a documentary titled “Legacy,” which dives into her journey with the team, the emotional toll of Kobe Bryant’s death, and the pressure of maintaining the Lakers’ high standards.

Personal Life and Relationships

Jeanie has had a public personal life, particularly due to her marriage to Phil Jackson, the legendary NBA coach. Their relationship was widely followed, especially during Jackson’s time coaching the Lakers. The two married in 2013 but later separated in 2017.

Despite the end of their marriage, Jeanie has maintained a professional relationship with Jackson, especially since he played a major role in the Lakers’ success during his coaching tenure. Her personal life, like her professional one, has often been under public scrutiny, but she continues to handle it with a level of grace and determination.

She has also been linked to other figures in the sports world, but she tends to keep her private life out of the spotlight. What’s clear is that her family, including her late father Jerry Buss, remains a central part of her identity.

Jeanie Buss and Netflix’s 'Running Point'

In a surprising twist, Jeanie has stepped into the world of entertainment as an executive producer for Netflix’s new series, “Running Point.” The show, which revolves around the behind-the-scenes drama of a fictional NBA team, is said to be inspired in part by Jeanie’s own life. The main character, Isla Gordon, mirrors some of Jeanie’s experiences in the league, especially when it comes to being a woman in a male-dominated industry.

The show has generated buzz, not just for its storytelling, but also because of Jeanie’s involvement. Her real-life experiences have brought authenticity to the series, making it more than just a dramatization. It’s a reflection of the challenges and triumphs she’s faced as a leader in the sports world.

It’s also a sign that Jeanie isn’t afraid to explore new avenues. Whether it’s through documentaries or scripted television, she’s showing that her influence stretches far beyond the Lakers’ front office.

Frequently Asked Questions (People Also Ask)

Who is Jeanie Galbraith McQueen?

Jeanie Galbraith McQueen is more commonly known as Jeanie Buss. She is the president and controlling owner of the Los Angeles Lakers, one of the most iconic franchises in the NBA. Her leadership has helped the team secure multiple championships, and she’s been a major figure in both sports and entertainment.

How did Jeanie Buss become the owner of the Lakers?

Jeanie inherited her role as a key stakeholder in the Lakers after the passing of her father, Jerry Buss, in 2013. Through a series of family negotiations and legal processes, she eventually became the controlling owner and president of the team, solidifying her position as one of the most powerful women in sports.

What is Jeanie Buss’s role in Netflix's 'Running Point'?

Jeanie Buss serves as an executive producer for Netflix’s “Running Point,” a series that explores the behind-the-scenes operations of an NBA franchise. Her own experiences have helped shape the narrative of the show, particularly through the character of Isla Gordon, who bears similarities to Jeanie’s personal and professional journey.

Learn more about sports leadership and the impact of influential figures like Jeanie Buss in shaping the future of the game. For more on NBA ownership and management, click here.