Golden State Warriors owner Joe Lacob’s reported interest in purchasing the San Diego Padres has sparked fresh speculation about the long-term future of the NBA franchise. While no sale of the Warriors has been suggested by Lacob himself, sports media personality Bill Simmons floated the idea that acquiring an MLB team could eventually lead to a major ownership shift in Golden State.
Lacob currently oversees the most valuable franchise in the NBA, built on a decade of sustained success, four championships, and the global appeal of Stephen Curry. But with the Padres potentially heading to the market, some observers believe the timing could open the door to a dramatic change.
Bill Simmons questions whether Lacob could move on from the Warriors
Speaking on his podcast, Simmons raised the possibility that a successful bid for the Padres might lead Lacob to consider selling the Warriors.
He noted that many around the league believe Lacob would never part with the franchise, but argued that the current moment could represent an ideal window from a business perspective. With NBA expansion discussions gaining traction and franchise values at historic highs, Simmons suggested the Warriors could fetch a massive return.
Simmons also pointed to the presence of Stephen Curry as a unique selling point. A new owner would inherit a global superstar who could remain productive for several more seasons, making the team even more attractive on the open market.
In Simmons’ view, Lacob could justify the move by pointing to the Warriors’ accomplishments under his leadership. After overseeing four championship runs and building one of the league’s most advanced basketball and business operations, he could simply shift his focus to a new challenge in Major League Baseball.
How Joe Lacob’s greed killed a dynasty
(a MEGA thread🪡) pic.twitter.com/Stdh4ZDfqk
— TheWarriorsHouse (@GSWarriorsHouse) August 6, 2024
Warriors’ aging core adds context to long-term speculation
Although the Warriors remain competitive, their championship core is entering the later stages of its run. Curry is now in his late 30s, while key figures from the title teams, including Draymond Green, are also nearing the twilight of their careers.
That reality has already prompted conversations about the franchise’s next phase, whether that involves a roster reset or a longer-term rebuild. While those basketball decisions are separate from ownership matters, they add context to why some analysts see the present as a peak-value moment for the franchise.
Padres sale creates potential opening for Lacob
The Padres have emerged as a potential acquisition target following the death of longtime owner Peter Seidler. The franchise is currently being explored for sale amid legal and financial complications tied to the family trust that controls the team.
For Lacob, the opportunity fits a long-standing ambition. He has previously pursued ownership of MLB clubs, including the Oakland Athletics and Los Angeles Angels, but was unable to complete a deal. His continued interest suggests he has been looking for the right entry point into baseball for years.
With the Padres now available, that opportunity may finally exist. From a business standpoint, the timing could align with both Lacob’s personal ambitions and the Warriors’ peak valuation.
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No indication of a Warriors sale, but speculation grows
At this stage, the idea of Lacob selling the Warriors remains purely speculative. There has been no official indication that he intends to part with the team, and the franchise continues to be the centerpiece of his sports ownership portfolio.
Still, the combination of the Padres’ availability, the Warriors’ sky-high valuation, and the aging core in Golden State has created a compelling “what-if” scenario. Whether it remains a talking point or evolves into something more substantial will likely depend on how the Padres sale process unfolds.
