What's Happening?
Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian, along with his venture capital firm Seven Seven Six, is spearheading the ownership group for a new professional volleyball team in Los Angeles. This team will be part
of League One Volleyball (LOVB), which announced the development on Wednesday. The Los Angeles team is set to debut in January 2027, marking the league's third season. Ohanian, who is married to tennis star Serena Williams, is already involved in the Los Angeles sports scene as a founding control owner of Angel City FC in the National Women's Soccer League and the Tomorrow's Golf League's Los Angeles Golf Club. LOVB, which began its first season with six city-based teams, has attracted significant sponsorships and viewership, indicating a growing interest in professional volleyball in the U.S.
Why It's Important?
The introduction of a new professional volleyball team in Los Angeles signifies a growing interest and investment in women's sports in the United States. Alexis Ohanian's involvement highlights the increasing support for women's sports from influential figures and venture capitalists. This expansion is crucial as it provides domestic opportunities for top volleyball players who previously had to join international leagues to pursue their careers. The growth of professional volleyball leagues like LOVB and the Pro Volleyball Federation, which recently merged with Major League Volleyball, reflects a broader trend of expanding sports diversity and inclusivity in the U.S. market.
What's Next?
The Los Angeles volleyball team is scheduled to debut in January 2027, which will be a significant milestone for LOVB as it enters its third season. The league's expansion into Southern California is expected to further boost the popularity of volleyball in the region, known for its enthusiastic embrace of new sports teams. As the league continues to grow, it may attract more sponsors and increase its viewership, potentially leading to further expansion and the establishment of additional teams across the country. Stakeholders, including sponsors and sports enthusiasts, will likely monitor the team's development and its impact on the local sports scene.
Beyond the Headlines
The expansion of professional volleyball in the U.S. could have long-term cultural implications, promoting gender equality in sports and encouraging young athletes to pursue volleyball professionally. The involvement of high-profile investors like Alexis Ohanian may inspire other venture capitalists to invest in women's sports, potentially leading to increased funding and resources for female athletes. This development also highlights the growing trend of sports diversification in the U.S., which could lead to more inclusive and varied sports offerings for fans and athletes alike.
