There are no current intentions to change the ownership structure or sell the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL). Stan Kasten, a member of the league’s advisory board, confirmed that despite ongoing investigations into co-founder Mark Walter’s businesses, the governance of the 12-team league will remain stable. Kasten emphasized the league’s commitment to sustainability and long-term growth.
Mark Walter, a prominent Chicago billionaire with investments in various sports teams, including the Los Angeles Dodgers and Lakers, faces scrutiny from U.S. federal prosecutors and the Securities and Exchange Commission for alleged tax fraud. Despite this, there are no imminent changes expected in the PWHL’s ownership.
Walter recently agreed to a significant sale of the NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers for a record-breaking price. However, the sale is pending approval from the NBA’s board of governors. When questioned about potential investigations into Walter, regulatory bodies in Canada directed inquiries to regional securities commissions.
The PWHL, which has subsidiaries in Toronto and Vancouver, welcomed outside investors in June, with Toronto-based Kilmer Sports Ventures and Detroit-based Ilitch Sports and Entertainment being the first to invest. The league was co-founded in 2022 by Walter and his wife, Kimbra Walter, under the Mark Walter Group, in partnership with the Professional Women’s Hockey Players Association and Billie Jean King Enterprises.
The league has expanded its reach, adding franchises in Hamilton, Detroit, San Jose, and Las Vegas. All 12 teams are fully owned by the league, reflecting its growth and commitment to women’s hockey. Kasten expressed excitement about the league’s future and progress, emphasizing the pride of the ownership group.
Kasten also addressed speculations about the Los Angeles Dodgers, assuring that the team is not up for sale and reiterating the commitment to success. Walter’s involvement in the Dodgers dates back to the $2.15 billion acquisition in 2012 through Guggenheim Baseball Management, solidifying his position as a significant stakeholder in the reigning World Series champions.
