Detroit is actively working towards re-establishing a WNBA franchise in the city, led by a group of prominent investors that includes the owners of both the Detroit Pistons and the Detroit Lions.
On Thursday, Tom Gores, the owner of the Pistons, submitted an official bid to bring back the WNBA, and it was made public a day later. Among the investors are Sheila Ford Hamp and her husband, who own the Lions, the CEO and chair of General Motors, Hall of Fame player Grant Hill, Lions quarterback Jared Goff and his spouse, along with several others.
Gores expressed excitement about the potential return of the WNBA, stating, “This is home for the WNBA, and our proposal signifies a unique chance for the league to return to its roots in Detroit.” He emphasized the city’s readiness to embrace the team as a source of community pride and unity.
The Detroit Shock was one of the initial expansion teams of the WNBA, enjoying significant success with three championship wins from 1998 to 2009. They consistently ranked within the top five for attendance over five years and held the top spot for three consecutive seasons. Notably, a record-setting 22,076 fans attended Game 3 of the WNBA Finals in 2003.
If the bid is successful, the new team would compete at the Little Caesars Arena.
Gores highlighted, “Detroit is a sports city that passionately supports its teams and demonstrates unwavering enthusiasm.” He also noted that Detroit played a pivotal role in the growth of the WNBA when it was at a crucial stage in its development and underscored the intention to revive that glorious legacy.
The bid is also receiving backing from significant political figures, including Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan. The proposal includes plans to create a dedicated practice facility and headquarters for the WNBA team, which would be operational around the clock. This facility will encompass practice courts, locker rooms, fitness areas, as well as office space and lounges. Furthermore, a sports center accessible to the public is also part of the vision.
Whitmer expressed her enthusiasm, saying, “People in Michigan are excited about this possibility. Our support for our teams and athletes is unparalleled, and our dedication to our communities is steadfast. We have a clear vision for advancing women’s sports, and my administration fully supports the success of this franchise.”
The WNBA plans to expand by adding three new teams within the next two seasons, welcoming franchises from Golden State, Portland, and Toronto, which would increase the total number of teams to 15. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has indicated that the league aims to add a 16th team before the 2028 season. In November, Cleveland also announced its intent to bring back a WNBA franchise.
Additionally, Nashville has put forward a bid, proposing a team named the Tennessee Summitt to honor the legacy of the late Pat Summitt. The investor group includes three-time WNBA champion Candace Parker, Pro Football Hall of Famer Peyton Manning, and the chairman of the NHL’s Nashville Predators. This bid, too, features a commitment to establishing a dedicated practice facility.
