BREAKING NEWS: Warriors GM Mike Dunleavy Jr. in Talks to Buy the Team from Owner Joe Lacob
In a shocking twist that could reshape the future of the Golden State Warriors and the NBA as a whole, multiple sources have confirmed that General Manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. is involved in confidential negotiations with Warriors majority owner Joe Lacob to purchase a controlling stake in the franchise.
If the deal goes through, Dunleavy Jr. would become the first sitting general manager in modern NBA history to acquire ownership of the team he manages. The move, insiders say, is part of a long-term succession plan crafted privately between Lacob and Dunleavy following years of championship success and organizational stability.
“Joe and I have shared a vision not just for the team’s performance on the court, but for its long-term legacy off it,” Dunleavy reportedly told close associates. “This organization is personal to me—and now it could be permanent.”
How the Deal Unfolded
Sources close to the situation say talks began quietly in late 2024 when Joe Lacob—who purchased the team in 2010 with business partner Peter Guber—first floated the idea of stepping back from day-to-day operations.
The proposed deal would see Dunleavy Jr. and a group of unnamed investors acquire up to 51% controlling interest in the Warriors, with Lacob retaining a minority share and advisory role. The franchise, valued at over $9 billion, is one of the most lucrative in professional sports.
Implications for the Franchise
The deal has reportedly received preliminary approval from the NBA’s ownership committee, though it would still require a full vote from the league’s Board of Governors. League Commissioner Adam Silver declined to comment, but a spokesperson confirmed the NBA is “aware of the developing situation.”
The news comes just months after Dunleavy orchestrated the re-signing of star forward Jonathan Kuminga and traded veteran Klay Thompson, moves seen as signaling a new era for the dynasty-era Warriors.
If the acquisition is completed, Dunleavy Jr. would be expected to step down from his role as GM and hire a new front office leader, while assuming the title of Chairman and Governor of the franchise.
Fan and League Reactions
The news set social media ablaze, with #DunleavyDeal trending on X (formerly Twitter) within minutes. Warriors fans expressed a mixture of excitement, confusion, and curiosity about what the move means for the team’s future.
“Honestly, I’d rather our GM buy the team than some billionaire with no basketball soul,” one fan posted.
“From Duke to Dubs to Dynasty Owner? Wild,” another said.
Several current and former players, including Stephen Curry, reportedly knew about the discussions for weeks but have not commented publicly.
