League One Volleyball (LOVB) announced that Sandra Idehen, a former executive for Nike’s Jordan brand, will become the first commissioner for the LOVB Pro league.
Idehen served at Nike from June 2018 to June 2025. Her last position was global VP/GM, Jordan Basketball + Sport. Prior roles included VP/GM, Jordan Brand, EMEA, and general manager, South Africa, for Nike’s overall business. Prior to Nike, she worked for The Boston Consulting Group.
Idehen’s hire follows the LOVB’s inaugural season in January 2025, which featured six teams in Atlanta, Austin, Houston, Madison, Omaha, and Salt Lake. For its second season, the league has added three new franchises in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Minnesota; added five new ownership groups; expanded its broadcast partnerships to include ESPN; secured over 30 partners; and assembled a roster of 90 athletes.
As Commissioner, Idehen will oversee the LOVB Pro League, including operations, long-term strategy, brand development, and the continued expansion of the league’s integrated youth-to-pro ecosystem.
“Sandra is exactly the kind of leader LOVB was built to attract at this stage of our growth,” said Peter Hirschmann, executive chairman and founder of League One Volleyball. “She brings a global perspective, deep sports expertise and a proven ability to lead complex organizations with clarity and purpose. Just as importantly, she shares our belief that women’s volleyball deserves a professional league that reflects the scale, ambition and cultural relevance of the sport. We are thrilled to welcome her as our first Commissioner as we continue building, expanding and defining the future of the game.”
“LOVB was built with intention, and that foundation is unmistakable,” said Idehen. “This league represents access, opportunity and belief in what is possible when athletes are supported at every stage of their journey. I’m honored to step into this role, to build on an incredible foundation from our founding teams, and to help guide LOVB through its next phase of growth as we continue to elevate volleyball on a global stage.”
Idehen succeeds founding President Rosie Spaulding, who led LOVB Pro from its earliest vision through the launch and execution of its first season. The leadership transition has been long planned. Spaulding will remain actively involved with the league in an advisory role.
“As we planned for LOVB’s next chapter, we have been deliberate in helping identify the right leader for this moment,” said Spaulding. “Sandra brings the experience, vision, and leadership style that aligns deeply with the foundation we’ve built. I’m proud of what we’ve launched, and excited to continue supporting the league as Sandra guides LOVB through its next phase of growth.”
Images courtesy League One Volleyball
