Savannah James, entrepreneur and philanthropist, is joining the ownership group of LOVB Los Angeles as an investor, bringing her commitment to women’s sports, youth development and community engagement to the professional volleyball franchise ahead of its inaugural 2026-27 season.
Announced Sept. 17, the investment reflects James’ belief in the growth of women’s sports and the importance of creating opportunities for the next generation of female athletes. LOVB Los Angeles will make its professional debut at Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, as part of League One Volleyball’s expanding professional league.
James said her perspective on volleyball has been shaped in part by watching her daughter, Zhuri, participate in the sport.
“I’ve seen firsthand through my daughter Zhuri how powerful volleyball can be for young girls, the confidence, discipline and sense of community it creates,” said James. “LOVB is an incredible league with elite athletes and a level of competition that is only going to continue to grow. I’m excited to be part of LOVB Los Angeles and to help build something special that girls like Zhuri can aspire to be part of one day.”
Ana Mendy, president of LOVB Los Angeles, welcomed James to the organization, highlighting her experience creating opportunities for women and young people.
“Savannah represents exactly the kind of leadership, purpose and influence we want around LOVB Los Angeles,” Mendy said. “She has spent years creating opportunities for women and young people, and she understands the power of sport to shape what the next generation believes is possible. We’re incredibly proud to have her building this with us.”
Alexis Ohanian, founder of investment firm 776 and owner of LOVB Los Angeles, said James brings a valuable combination of perspective, commitment and influence to the franchise’s ownership group.
The announcement comes as the team prepares for its first season and builds awareness throughout Southern California. The franchise recently named Intuit Dome, home of the Los Angeles Clippers, as its venue and added actress, writer and entrepreneur Issa Rae to its ownership group.
LOVB Los Angeles is also preparing to introduce its official team name, logo and brand identity on Sept. 25, followed by its first Fan Fest on Sept. 26. The event will give fans an opportunity to meet players and celebrate the arrival of professional women’s volleyball in Los Angeles.
The franchise is the seventh team in League One Volleyball, which describes itself as the first youth-to-professional volleyball ecosystem in the United States. By connecting youth participation with elite competition, LOVB aims to expand the sport’s reach and create more pathways for aspiring athletes.
With James among its investors, LOVB Los Angeles is positioning itself to combine professional competition with community involvement as it enters a new chapter for women’s sports in Southern California.