Jeanie Buss: A Love Story on and off the Court

By Jocelyn Alano July 03, 2024 18:35

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Jeanie Buss, the esteemed owner of the Los Angeles Lakers, is not only a powerhouse in the world of basketball but also in matters of the heart. In a whirlwind of love and romance, Jeanie Buss and comedian Jay Mohr tied the knot in a picturesque beachside ceremony in Malibu on September 3, 2023, surrounded by their closest friends and family.

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A Love Beyond the Courts

Jeanie Buss, known for her role as the Lakers' president, radiated elegance on her wedding day, a day carefully planned by Sahar Whitley of Whitley Events, culminating in what was described as "the party of the century". However, what sets this marriage apart is the unique arrangement the couple has when it comes to their living quarters. Despite being happily married, Jeanie Buss and Jay Mohr opt to sleep in separate beds and reside in different building units, a decision that has attracted attention and sparked conversations about their unconventional yet evidently well-functioning relationship.

In an interview with Graham Bensinger, Jeanie Buss shed light on their living arrangement, sharing insights into their decision to maintain separate sleeping quarters while still cherishing their togetherness. According to her, their living space consists of three units, with her residing on the top floor and Jay on the first floor, with another couple living in between them. She emphasized the importance of personal space and schedules while still being able to enjoy each other's company, making their distinct approach to married life a testament to the uniqueness of their bond.

A Trailblazer in Love and Basketball

Jeanie Buss's journey in the sports management realm began at the young age of 19 when she was entrusted with the reins of the now-defunct tennis team, The LA Strings, by her father, Dr. Jerry Buss. Over the years, she has fearlessly carved her path in the male-dominated world of sports management, eventually becoming the president of the Great Western Forum and later ascending to an executive vice president position, making her one of the highest-ranking women in the NBA.

Her unwavering determination and leadership were further exemplified when she made the tough decision to dismiss her brother from the Lakers' basketball operations, emphasizing her commitment to upholding the legacy of Laker basketball that her father had envisioned 2. In 2020, she made history as the first female controlling owner to lead the Lakers to an NBA Championship, solidifying her status as a trailblazer in the sports industry.

Love, Loss, and New Beginnings

While Jeanie Buss's professional journey has been nothing short of remarkable, her personal life has also been filled with its share of ups and downs. Following a short-lived marriage and a momentous decision to pose for Playboy after her divorce, Jeanie Buss found love in a 15-year relationship with Phil Jackson, the former coach of the Lakers. Although their long-distance relationship ultimately came to an end, the mutual respect endured, leading her to a new chapter in her life with her recent marriage to comedian Jay Mohr.

In her own words, Jeanie Buss has not only inspired women to not give up on romance but has also embraced the complexities of balancing work and personal life, echoing the sentiments of countless working women and mothers. Furthermore, her latest venture with the Women of Wrestling (WOW) stands as a testament to her commitment to providing women with a platform in a male-dominated industry, encapsulating the spirit of empowerment and equality that she continues to champion.

Embracing Uniqueness and Empowering Others

As Jeanie Buss embarks on this new chapter of her life, her story serves as a beacon of inspiration, not just in the world of basketball but in matters of the heart as well. Her unorthodox yet thriving marriage with Jay Mohr showcases the beauty of embracing individuality within a loving partnership, while her professional journey stands as a testament to resilience, determination, and the unwavering pursuit of equality and empowerment.

In conclusion, Jeanie Buss's story is a heartfelt narrative of love, loss, and new beginnings, intertwined with a legacy of trailblazing achievements in the realm of sports management. Her marriage to Jay Mohr and her unwavering commitment to empowering women through her ventures serve as a shining example of embracing uniqueness, love, and the pursuit of one's passions, both on and off the court.