Walmart Heir Lukas Walton Buys Minority Stake in Chicago Bulls and United Center

One of America's wealthiest individuals is now a part-owner of one of Chicago's most storied sports franchises. Lukas Walton, 39-year-old grandson of Walmart founder Sam Walton, and his wife Samantha have purchased a minority stake in the Chicago Bulls and the United Center, the team announced Friday.

What the Deal Means

Despite the new ownership addition, the Reinsdorf family will retain controlling interest in the Bulls, the United Center, and The 1901 Project — a sweeping $7 billion private investment initiative focused on the community surrounding the West Side arena. The Wirtz family, longtime partners in the United Center, also remains fully aligned in the shared vision for the venue and its surrounding campus.

Michael Reinsdorf, president and CEO of the Chicago Bulls, welcomed the Waltons warmly.