The Premier Lacrosse League (PLL) has secured $100 million in a financing round, marking the largest capital raise in professional lacrosse history, the league announced today. The round was led by Ares funds and Joe Tsai, owner of the New York Liberty, with ESPN also making a minority equity investment. Actors Rob Mac and Glen Powell joined the group of investors, with Powell set to serve as a Creative Advisor for the league.
The financing round was spearheaded by Ares Sports, Media and Entertainment co-head Jim Miller, who will join the PLL’s Board of Directors. Glen Powell, known for his role in “Top Gun: Maverick,” will collaborate with PLL founders Paul and Mike Rabil to help launch the first PLL and Women’s Lacrosse League teams in Texas. ESPN, already the league’s media rights partner, expanded its involvement through this equity stake, strengthening its role in live game distribution and original content creation for both the PLL and Women’s Lacrosse League.
This funding round comes as lacrosse prepares for a pivotal moment with the Olympics approaching, aiming to grow its fan base and athlete participation globally. Mike Rabil, PLL co-founder and CEO, emphasized the league’s commitment to building infrastructure for elite competition, broader distribution, and youth engagement. The investment reflects increasing interest in lacrosse as it seeks to establish a stronger professional ecosystem and capitalize on expanding media partnerships, including with ESPN.
The 2026 PLL and Women’s Lacrosse League seasons will benefit from this capital infusion, supporting the league’s expansion efforts and media initiatives. Jim Miller’s appointment to the board and Glen Powell’s advisory role signal a strategic push to elevate the sport’s profile ahead of the Olympic Games, scheduled for later this year.
citations