PLL raises $100 million in investments

• Ares Management, Joe Tsai, ESPN, and several well-known actors and musicians took part in the financing.
• The funds are planned to be directed toward season expansion, media content, youth initiatives, and the women’s league.
• Management is also considering selling franchises and the possibility of more local team development.

The Premier Lacrosse League raised $100 million in a Series E round. The financing included Ares Management, Alibaba co-founder Joe Tsai, ESPN, as well as actors Rob McElhenney, Glen Powell, Rob Mcelhenney, Tony Cavalero, and country singer Warren Zeiders.

According to the league, this is the largest capital raise in the history of professional lacrosse. ESPN, which already has a media partnership with PLL, also became an investor. Jim Miller of Ares will join the league’s board of directors.

Glen Powell will serve as a creative adviser and will work together with founders Paul and Mike Rabil to prepare for the launch of the first PLL teams and the Women’s Lacrosse League in Texas. The league also plans to use the funds to expand the season, develop its media and commercial operations, as well as support youth programs and the Women’s Lacrosse League.

PLL was founded in 2018 by brothers Mike and Paul Rabil. The league brings together eight teams in North America, and its 2026 season will be broadcast on ESPN and ABC platforms. The Women’s Lacrosse League season began in February 2025, and the final is scheduled for August 15 at Subaru Park in Chester, Pennsylvania.

Mike Rabil said the league is considering the possibility of selling existing or new franchises to give current investors an exit and strengthen local development. He also did not rule out interest in a proposal to sell the entire league, if one proves compelling.

Tags: Economy/Sport