A Shocking Lakers Sale. Plus, the 20 Best and Worst Youth Sports for Parents With Cousin Sal.

The recent $12.5 billion sale of the Los Angeles Lakers to a group led by Bob Iger and Josh Kushner signals a shift toward viewing professional sports franchises as high-stakes financial assets rather than community-focused operations. This valuation, which far exceeds previous records, reflects a broader trend of private equity and ultra-wealthy investors prioritizing asset appreciation over traditional ownership models. Beyond the league's shifting financial landscape, the conversation pivots to a subjective ranking of youth sports from a parent’s perspective. Factors such as time commitment, financial cost, physical injury risks, and long-term scholarship potential define these rankings, with sports like figure skating and gymnastics ranking lowest due to high costs and physical toll, while volleyball and soccer emerge as top choices for their accessibility, team dynamics, and overall parent entertainment value.