Bass family in talks to buy ASVEL

The Bass family — the American sports dynasty long associated with the Los Angeles Lakers — is in advanced talks to acquire ASVEL, the French club that competes in the EuroLeague.

According to information circulating in France, negotiations have been underway for some time and parties hope to complete a deal no later than the end of 2026. A central issue in the discussions is the amount of compensation, with figures being discussed in the range of 60 to 80 million euros.

For ASVEL, a successful agreement with the Bass family would come after a turbulent period. This summer the club moved from an ambitiously planned project toward cost-cutting measures and even the possibility of releasing players because previously promised funds were not guaranteed. Names linked to the team this summer include Sylvain Francisco, Daniel Theis and Armoni Brooks.

Financial background and immediate impact

An earlier investor who reached an agreement with ASVEL failed to provide the necessary financial guarantees, worsening the club’s situation. From a planned budget of 59 million, the Villeurbanne club will have 24 million available for the coming season.

If the Bass family transaction is completed, ASVEL would regain room to aim for top results in the near future. The potential takeover is being framed as a chance to restore stability after weeks of uncertainty.

The Bass family itself is an American sporting dynasty best known for running the Los Angeles Lakers for more than 45 years. Jerry Bass bought the franchise in 1979 and transformed its games into a Hollywood-style spectacle, winning numerous championships. After his death in 2013 his six children took over management, a chapter that culminated in the sale of a majority stake to Mark Walter for $10 billion.

Photo: press material from the event