Jerry Buss Bio

Poker isn't just a hobby for this former real estate developer. Jerry Buss is also a regular high-stakes cash-game player who enjoys playing tournaments on the circuit. Back in 1989, Buss promised Johnny Chan an NBA championship ring if he could win three World Series of Poker titles in a row. Chan finished second that year to Phil Hellmuth.

The 72-year-old owner of the Los Angeles Lakers grew up in "the plains" of Wyoming, and made the largest transaction in sports history in 1979 when he purchased both the famous basketball team and the Kings of the NHL for $67.5 million. Players like Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Shaquille O'Neal, and Kobe Bryant are only a handful of the stars who have played under his ownership.

When he's not dealing with a major sports franchise, Buss turns his attention to poker, specifically in the Los Angeles area.