The inaugural season of League One Volleyball (LOVB) kicked off on January 8, 2025, with great excitement surrounding one of America’s newest professional volleyball leagues. With its launch, LOVB joins the ranks of the Pro Volleyball Federation and Athletes Unlimited, paving the way for elite domestic competition and professional opportunities for volleyball players across the country.
Fans witnessed history as Tessa Grubbs, former All-American and standout at the University of Tennessee, took the court for the first match against LOVB Atlanta alongside her team, LOVB Salt Lake City. This anticipated matchup was part of the opening events of the season broadcast live on ESPN+ at 7:30 p.m. ET. Grubbs, who finished her collegiate career with impressive statistics—1,413 kills, 216 digs, and 169 blocks—represents one of many talented former collegiate stars now making their mark on the professional stage.
LOVB aims to capitalize on the growing interest and fan base for women’s sports by promoting professional volleyball, leveraging its recent media rights agreement with ESPN, which will air 10 matches across its networks and stream 18 games throughout the season on ESPN+. Matches will also reach audiences beyond the U.S., being broadcasted in Canada, the Caribbean, and Latin America, increasing visibility and support for the league.
One of the highlights of the LOVB model is the financial commitment it has garnered, with over $150 million raised through investments from major players such as Atwater Capital, Ares Management, and Left Lane Capital. This funding not only elevates the league's profile but also attracts star-studded investors like Olympic skiing champion Lindsey Vonn and 14-time NBA All-Star Kevin Durant, signaling strong confidence in the league's potential to thrive.
LOVB comprises six teams, each boasting remarkable rosters filled with accomplished athletes. LOVB Atlanta features Olympic medalist Kelsey Robinson-Cook among its ranks, and the team is under the seasoned guidance of coaches Paulo Coco and Yoko Zetterlund, both of whom have vast international experience. Meanwhile, LOVB Austin is led by former U.S. star Carli Lloyd and includes several former Texas Longhorns who have captured championships together.
LOVB Houston is another team stacked with talent, including two-time Olympic medalists Micha Hancock and Jordan Thompson, coached by the formidable Massimo Barbolini, who recently achieved historic success with Italy’s Olympic team. On the other hand, LOVB Madison demonstrates its competitive edge with players like Olympic silver medalist Lauren Carlini and two-time gold medalist Annie Drews Schumacher. They are helmed by Matt Fuerbringer, who has previously assisted the U.S. Men’s national team during multiple Olympic medal wins.
LOVB Omaha and Salt Lake City also field strong squads, with Omaha featuring the most decorated American indoor Olympian, Jordan Larson, and Salt Lake City led by two-time Olympic gold medalist Haleigh Washington. Both teams showcase athletes who have achieved significant accolades, creating matchups filled with potential excitement for fans across various platforms.
The much-anticipate season will include 60 matches over 14 weeks with weekly rotations among all teams. Notably, the LOVB Classic will occur mid-season from February 14-16, involving all teams vying for supremacy in what promises to be thrilling competition. The league culminates with the LOVB Finals scheduled for April.
Fans can find many ways to engage with the league, from watching broadcasts to attending matches. LOVB's online platform, alongside exclusive INSIDER content, provides volleyball enthusiasts with comprehensive access to their favorite games. Tickets are set affordably, starting at $15, ensuring accessibility for supporters eager to witness the action live.
Engaging with the community is also central to LOVB's strategy. Teams are working to garner support by connecting with local fans, banking on the popularity of past collegiate stars and the strong volleyball culture. Players are actively promoting the league, inviting the community to attend matches, blending competitive sports with fan interaction.
The LO volleyball league is part of shifting dynamics within professional women’s sports, showcasing both experience and potential for athletes who previously had limited options post-collegiate career. The development of multiple leagues, such as the Pro Volleyball Federation and Athletes Unlimited, reflects broadening opportunities as women’s sports continue to garner more interest and investment.
LOVB has not just created a league; it’s fostering both community and competitiveness, helping to sustain interest and build pathways for the next generation of athletes. With seasoned players taking center stage and new fans to engage, hopes run high for the league to solidify its presence within the sports world. The backdrop of proven talent and fanfare creates anticipation for the future of women's volleyball.
There’s no doubt: with support mounting from both athletes and fans alike, the League One Volleyball is positioned to flourish and become integral to the volleyball community.