Nepotism, according to the Cambridge Dictionary, is “the act of using your power or influence to get good jobs or unfair advantages for members of your own family.” Of course, it extends just beyond the immediate family. They encompass a far larger group depending on the field one refers to. However, the basic idea remains the same. We happen to live in a world where this term has become quite popular. You must be aware of the more common term – ‘Nepo baby’.

Often used for children of celebrities in mainstream media and showbiz, it has made its way into the NBA, as well. Yup, none other than our very own new Laker – Bronny James. Born with the James surname and as the firstborn son has put the 19-year-old in a chokehold by the critics since he was born. And when he decided to follow in his father’s footsteps, the scrutiny increased multifold.

Of course, the latest in the saga was the Lakers drafting him as the second-round 55th pick. However, amidst Bronny-nepotism discussions, one popular podcaster has shifted his attention to another such descendant of nepotism. In the latest episode of It is What It Is – Come and Talk 2 Me, platinum-selling record artists, Ma$e and Cam’ron, alongside Treasure “Stat Baby” Wilson, discuss the whole situation.

But as the trio were discussing the James family, Ma$e turns the attention to Jeanie Buss, the majority controlling owner of the Lakers. “Jeanie Buss is a direct descendant of nepotism. Father started the Lakers. Handed it down to her and her brothers.” Well, it is true. And the funny thing is, ‘family businesses, by definition, rely on nepotism’ (as per Oxford Reference). In other words, family business = nepotism. There’s no two ways about it.

So why Buss?

Jeanie Buss has her business know-how called into question with regard to the Los Angeles Lakers

Buss coming under fire more often than not has to do with some questionable choices of the franchise in recent years. A prominent example many have pointed out is letting Alex Caruso walk away in 2021 free agency after the addition of Russell Westbrook. Another instance is that the Purple & Gold hasn’t had a decorated coach since the Phil Jackson era.

The closest they came was with UConn’s legendary coach, Dan Hurley. Unfortunately, that never panned out, either. And a major factor for the offer falling through was reportedly finances. A six-year $70 million contract wasn’t enough to lure him away from a highly likely three-peat with the Huskies.

This has all led to much unrest amidst the Purple & Gold faithful, even. Many have called for Jeanie Buss to sell the team, while others believe that she’s never had the necessary skills to run a storied franchise like the Lakers. However, an aspect that Ma$e pointed out was about a conversation he had with a colleague.

“A lot of owners have other businesses that make them billionaires. Jeanie Buss is dependent on the Lakers to make a turnaround.” While it might make a few sympathize with Buss, it also calls attention to the financial struggles of the org. After all, if Hurley was offered $100 million, as was projected to be the case, Los Angeles might have gotten the 2x national championship-winning coach as their head coach.

The only way to turn this around is for the Los Angeles Lakers to have a phenomenal 2024-25 season. Not just for Jeanie Buss, but for LeBron James and his son, as well.

 Before you go, though, be sure to check this video of Leonard Armato’s take on the deadly duo, Shaq and Kobe. Don’t forget to check back in for more such updates from our ES Fancast!