Interviewed and Written by: April Mial (Approved by L’oreal)
For L’oreal Gamble, basketball is more than a sport—it’s a platform for empowerment, community building, and entrepreneurial innovation. As a professional player, wife, mother, and now the owner of a semi- professional women’s basketball team and women’s summer league, L’oreal has turned her lifelong love for the game into a legacy of leadership. Her journey from the North Carolina basketball courts to owning a championship-winning semi-professional team and a summer league exemplifies the grit, vision, and passion required to succeed in sports team ownership.
From Ballet to Basketball: A Path of Purpose
L’oreal’s journey to becoming a basketball team owner started unconventionally. Growing up in Indiana, she first trained in ballet before discovering basketball at the age of seven once she and her family relocated to North Carolina. From middle school to the professional level, L‘oreal excelled as a player, developing skills and resilience that would later inform her business decisions. After a successful collegiate career, highlighted by a CIAA championship and a Female Athlete of the Year award at Fayetteville State University, she was inducted into the FSU Hall of Fame in 2021.
For five years, Loreal played professionally overseas before transitioning to semi-professional leagues, balancing her career with raising three boys along side her husband Julian, whom also plays professionally overseas—all of whom share her love for basketball. Her unique perspective as a player-turned-owner makes her stand out in a field where deep player-owner connections are often rare.
The Spark for Ownership
L’oreal’s ownership journey began with a pivotal moment during her time in the Women’s American Basketball Association (WABA). Frustrated by how her former team was managed and encouraged by her teammates, she decided to take matters into her own hands. Her ownership of the Raleigh Aces were born from this decision — a team built on trust, talent, and shared goals with her teammates. Despite inheriting challenges, L‘oreal led her team to a championship in their first year, proving that her leadership style resonated with players and fans alike.
Her summer league, Life’s a Gamble, is another labor of love. Running from June to August, the league features a mix of competitive play and community engagement, attracting talent from across North Carolina.
Balancing Roles: Player, Owner, and Innovator
Loreal wears many hats. As an active player who suits up for both her semi-professional team and summer league, she practices alongside her teammates, offering them insights grounded in her own experiences. Her dual role helps her bridge the gap between players and management, fostering a culture of respect and understanding.
“Because I’ve been in their shoes, I understand the players’ perspective,” L’oreal says. “That’s something many coaches or owners can’t offer at the same depth.”
This empathetic approach is paired with a strong business acumen. From securing sponsorships with companies like Ethika to organizing community events with Wake County Cares, L‘oreal has demonstrated how profitability and purpose can coexist. She funds travel expenses, uniforms, and lodging for her players, reflecting her commitment to their growth both on and off the court.
A Vision for Women’s Basketball
For L’oreal, team ownership is not just about winning championships; it’s about creating opportunities for women in sports. Her semi-professional team showcases talent from across North Carolina, giving players a platform to shine, whether their goal is to advance professionally or simply continue playing the game they love.
“Women’s basketball has always been here, but it hasn’t always had the visibility it deserves,” Loreal explains. “When people come to our games, they’re often surprised by the level of talent. My goal is to change that narrative.”
Her efforts extend beyond the court. Through partnerships with local organizations and engaging social media campaigns, L’oreal has significantly increased her teams’ visibility. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube have allowed her to connect with fans and elevate the league’s profile.
Lessons for Aspiring Owners
L’oreal’s story offers valuable insights for those considering sports team ownership:
Start Small, but Think Big: Begin with grassroots initiatives, like a summer league, and grow your vision step by step.
Build Trust: Success comes from fostering strong relationships with players, fans, and sponsors.
Balance Passion and Business: While her heart is in the game, L’oreal emphasizes the importance of financial planning and operational efficiency.
Stay Resilient: Challenges are inevitable, but they can be overcome with determination and adaptability.
Her advice to aspiring owners is clear: “Make sure this is what you truly want to do. Once you own a team, everyone depends on you. Pre-planning is critical. If you can’t afford it or aren’t ready, wait until you are. Lastly, have a staff behind you to help you cross your Ts and dot your Is. There’s a must for the team behind the team!”
Looking Ahead
L‘oreal’s vision for women’s basketball extends far beyond her current achievements. She advocates for greater structural support, such as a G-League for women’s basketball, to bridge the gap between college and professional play. With dreams of international preseason games and expanded opportunities for semi-professional players, L‘oreal continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
A Legacy of Leadership
At 37, L‘oreal Gamble is just getting started. Whether she’s organizing a summer league game, mentoring a young player, or planning her team’s next big move, she is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion. Her story inspires not only players but also aspiring business leaders, proving that with the right mindset and a willingness to take risks, anything is possible in the world of sports.
For L’oreal, every decision, every game, and every challenge is a step toward building a brighter future for women’s basketball — a legacy she’s proud to call her own.
