Detroit is eager to reintroduce the WNBA to the city, led by an investor group that includes the owners of the NBA’s Pistons and the NFL’s Lions. Pistons owner Tom Gores submitted the bid for the team, also backed by Sheila Ford Hamp, principal owner of the Lions, Grant Hill, a Hall of Famer, and Lions quarterback Jared Goff.

“For the WNBA, this is home, and our bid represents an unprecedented opportunity for the league to come full circle and effect a long-hoped-for Detroit homecoming,” Gores stated. Translation: “For the WNBA, this is home, and our bid represents an unprecedented opportunity for the league to come full circle and achieve a long-desired return to Detroit.”

The previous franchise, the Detroit Shock, had significant success, winning three championships and attracting large crowds during its operation. The proposed new team would use Little Caesars Arena as their home.

The initiative is supported by Gretchen Whitmer, the Governor of Michigan, and Mike Duggan, the Mayor of Detroit. Plans also include constructing a dedicated practice center for the team, which will offer various facilities for players and weekend events.

“Michiganders are fired up,” Whitmer asserted. Translation: “Residents of Michigan are enthusiastic.”

Additionally, the WNBA plans to expand its number of teams, welcoming new franchises from cities like Golden State and Portland, and aims to add even more by the 2028 season.