$100 Million Milestone for LOVB
League One Volleyball (LOVB) announced a significant milestone with a $100 million investment from Atwater Capital, Ares Management and Left Lane Capital2.
This funding will support the launch of LOVB Pro’s inaugural season, set to begin on January 8, 2025. The investment will also help expand LOVB’s mission to transform volleyball from the grassroots to the professional level. It will bring professional volleyball to new markets and increase its visibility.
LOVB’s Impact on the Sport
LOVB has already made a substantial impact, with 58 junior clubs and over 16,000 athletes across 26 states. The new funding will further enhance their efforts to create professional pathways for young athletes and connect club athletes to professional players. The inaugural season will feature teams in Atlanta, Austin, Houston, Madison, Omaha and Salt Lake City, with 17 Olympians and players from over 20 countries.
Investment Significance
This investment underscores the growing popularity of volleyball and women’s sports, and it aims to create a platform where women and youth athletes can thrive. The LOVB Pro League is set to bring an unprecedented level of play to the U.S., led by world-class coaches and players.
Why $100 Million is Game Changer for Women’s Volleyball
1. It will further enhance LOVB’s efforts to create professional pathways for young athletes, connect club athletes to professional players and provide more opportunities for development.
2. Increase Media Partnerships – LOVB will be able to secure media partnerships, with ESPN set to broadcast 10 LOVB matches on its linear networks and 18 others on its streaming platform. This increased coverage will bring more attention to the sport and its athletes.
3. High-Profile Investors – The funding comes from prominent investment groups, including Atwater Capital, Ares Management and Left Lane Capital. This backing from well-known investors underscores the growing popularity and potential of volleyball as a major sport.
4. Empowerment of Female Athletes – LOVB’s mission is to transform volleyball from the grassroots to the professional level, creating a platform where women and youth athletes can thrive. The investment will help provide resources, coaching and opportunities specifically for female athletes, promoting gender equality in sports.
5. Economic Impact – The launch of a professional league and the expansion of youth programs will have a positive economic impact on the communities involved. It will create jobs, stimulate local economies and provide new opportunities for businesses and sponsors.
Overall, the $100 million investment in League One Volleyball is a game-changer for the sport, paving the way for its growth and success at both the grassroots and professional levels.
