#USA #Los Angeles #Major League Volleyball #Alisha Childress

New Horizons for Major League Volleyball

In an exciting move aimed at elevating the sport of volleyball, Major League Volleyball (MLV) has officially announced the formation of its franchise in Los Angeles, marking the beginning of an ambitious new chapter set to unfold in the inaugural 2027 season. This strategic expansion is spearheaded by Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, well-known for his role as a minority owner of the Los Angeles Lakers, who has taken the mantle of majority owner and founder of MLV LA. Assisting him is Ben Priest, the newly appointed governor and managing partner, who has played a pivotal role in shaping the league's development, notably through his previous endeavors with the Omaha Supernovas.

At the heart of the team's competitive spirit will be Alisha Childress, an Olympian and three-time NCAA Champion, who has been appointed as the head of competition and head coach. Childress's extensive experience and proven track record in the sport mark her as a crucial figure in leading the team toward success.

Dr. Soon-Shiong articulated the vision for the new franchise, emphasizing not just the aim of building a competitive team, but rather the creation of a sustainable platform designed to foster the future of women's professional sports. He notes, "Los Angeles presents a unique chance to blend elite competition, advanced technology, and groundbreaking media innovation, ultimately redefining professional volleyball's landscape."

The addition of a Los Angeles team is poised to position the city as a central player in the growth of professional volleyball, significantly affecting the sport's cultural and commercial landscape. Jaime Weston, Commissioner of Major League Volleyball, echoed this sentiment, stating that LA encompasses all necessary elements to thrive as a professional volleyball market. With a robust volleyball community and an established affinity for sports and entertainment, Weston believes the franchise can attract a diverse fanbase and create engaging live events.

The base of operations for the franchise will be anchored at the NantWorks campus located in El Segundo. This facility will serve as the operational hub and focus on athlete performance and team management. As Priest highlighted, the expansion to Los Angeles leverages the momentum gained in the previous seasons and seeks to continually intertwine sports, media, entertainment, and culture in a way that sustains long-term growth for both the league and its athletes.

Childress, enthusiastic about her role, expressed that Los Angeles deserves a professional volleyball team that mirrors the city's ambition, diversity, and vibrant energy. "We aim to cultivate an elite environment in which athletes can compete, evolve, and inspire future generations," she stated.

In the coming weeks, fans will eagerly await the unveiling of the franchise's branding and team identity, which promises to reflect the innovative essence of both the sport and the city it represents. This franchise, entering its fourth season alongside Major League Volleyball, aims to redefine the path of volleyball in the United States and enhance its visibility on the global stage. With a commitment to aligning with USA Volleyball and nurturing Olympic development, MLV lays the groundwork for aspiring athletes to transition from professional play to international competition.

For a complete look at what Major League Volleyball has to offer and to learn more about the Los Angeles franchise, visit ProVolleyball.com. This is just the beginning of an exciting journey that promises to reshape the future of volleyball and inspire countless individuals along the way.