Indy Ignite ready for hot start

The big picture: The Ignite's arrival comes as investors bank on pro volleyball becoming the next big thing in women's sports, and Indianapolis furthers its goal of becoming the women's sports capital of the world by 2050.

Zoom in: The first Ignite game will see them host the Orlando Valkyries at 7pm Saturday in front of a sold-out crowd inside the new 7,500-seat venue.

• The team is led by players like Carly Skjodt, a former Carmel High School star who helped the team win a state title in 2014; and Sydney Hilley who led Wisconsin to an NCAA title in 2021 and the Omaha Supernovas to the inaugural Pro Volleyball Federation Championship title last year.
• The head coach is George Padjen who helped lead Concordia University to nine NCAA championships as assistant coach.

State of play: The Ignite season ends May 3 and will feature 28 matches in eight cities, including 14 at home.

Fun fact: Pepper, the Indy Ignite mascot, tells IndyStar she likes to pass the time by playing the video game "Just Dance 3!"

If you go: Even with the sellout, there are standing room only tickets available for $30.

How to watch: WRTV or the Pro Volleyball Federation YouTube channel.