What's Happening?
Los Angeles is set to welcome a new Major League Volleyball (MLV) team in 2027, expanding the city's professional sports offerings. The team will be co-owned by Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, who also owns the Los Angeles Times and is a minority owner of the Lakers,
alongside Ben Priest, a former investor in the Omaha Supernovas. The expansion fee for the team is reported to be between $15 million and $20 million. This move is part of MLV's broader expansion strategy, which includes new teams in Northern California, Minnesota, and Washington D.C. The league, which merged with the Pro Volleyball Federation, aims to establish a strong presence in major sports markets. The Los Angeles team will join other local women's sports teams, including the WNBA's Sparks and NWSL's Angel City FC.
Why It's Important?
The introduction of a new MLV team in Los Angeles signifies the growing interest and investment in women's sports. This expansion reflects a broader trend of increasing opportunities and visibility for female athletes in professional sports. For Los Angeles, the addition of a volleyball team enhances the city's reputation as a hub for diverse sports entertainment. The involvement of high-profile investors like Dr. Soon-Shiong highlights the potential profitability and appeal of women's sports leagues. This development could inspire further investments and expansions in women's sports, contributing to greater gender equity in the sports industry.
What's Next?
As the new team prepares to join the league in 2027, efforts will likely focus on building a competitive roster and establishing a fan base in Los Angeles. The team's success could influence future expansions and the overall growth of MLV. Additionally, the league's strategy to merge with the Pro Volleyball Federation and expand into key markets suggests a long-term vision of becoming a major player in the professional sports landscape. Stakeholders will be watching closely to see how the new team performs and how it impacts the league's dynamics.
