The mystery buyer behind the jaw-dropping $34 million purchase of a Newport Coast mansion has been unveiled as Zach LaVine, the All-Star player from the Chicago Bulls.
LaVine’s acquisition marks the most expensive sale in the exclusive Pelican Crest community, previously home to notable figures like Vanessa Bryant and Paul Merage, inventor of Hot Pockets.
Despite the challenges in the real estate market, this opulent estate found its new owner in March. The property garnered substantial interest, with three bids received within the first two weeks of listing. After a previous deal fell through during escrow, LaVine’s offer of $34 million was accepted by the sellers.
LaVine’s preference for a substantial estate is well-documented. The $215 million athlete had previously sold a similarly luxurious Crystal Cove mansion in Newport Coast. The 28-year-old Seattle native has also recently listed his suburban property in Washington state.
Originally constructed in 2010, the Pelican Crest residence is described as “timeless” and “irreplaceable.” It was acquired for $14.7 million by Rоb and Ami Douk, who carried out extensive renovations on the Tuscan-style estate. The property is situated at the end of a cul-de-sac, occupying a substantial 0.79-acre lot, which is notably spacious for the area.
LaVine and his partner will enjoy a host of luxurious amenities at their new Orange County residence, including a state-of-the-art gym, infrared sauna, wine cellar, game room, golf simulator, and a gourmet kitchen featuring two marble-topped islands. The master suite boasts a “Yves Saint Laurent-themed” walk-in closet, and thanks to foldaway glass doors, the interior spaces are flooded with natural light.
The property’s standout feature is its uniquely shaped lot, providing expansive and unobstructed Pacific Ocean views facing southwest, offering breathtaking vistas of both sunrises and sunsets. This remarkable view comes at a cost of $34 million, along with monthly HOA dues of $843.
Abe Lim of Circa Properties represented the listing, while Paul Daftarian of Luxe Real Estate acted on behalf of the buyer, Zach LaVine.
