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Detroit is on the brink of reclaiming its prominent spot in the world of women’s professional basketball, and the drive to secure a WNBA expansion team for the city is fueled by an impressive mix of star power and influential backers. Eminem, one of the most iconic figures to emerge from Detroit, has joined forces with a dynamic group led by Tom Gores, the owner of the Detroit Pistons, in an ambitious push to return a WNBA franchise to Michigan’s largest city. The initiative has also garnered support from major figures in Detroit’s sports community, including key players behind the city’s beloved Red Wings, Tigers, and Lions. This surge of support signals the city’s unwavering pride and commitment to fostering the growth of women’s basketball.
Detroit’s Citywide Effort to Reintroduce the WNBA
On March 12, the WNBA’s expansion plans were initially focused on introducing just one additional team to the league. However, in a twist that has ignited further excitement, the WNBA now anticipates adding up to three new franchises. The league’s recent expansions into cities such as San Francisco, Toronto, and Portland have created an undeniably thrilling atmosphere surrounding its growth, setting the stage for even more dynamic developments.
Detroit’s drive to secure a WNBA team is not just about adding a new franchise; it’s also about reviving a cherished legacy. The city has previously hosted the Detroit Shock, a team that enjoyed significant success before relocating to Tulsa, Oklahoma. Later, the franchise moved again, this time to Dallas, where it became known as the Wings. NBA commissioner Adam Silver, a prominent advocate for women’s basketball, emphasized that the return of the Shock is more a question of timing than possibility. “I actually think it’s really just a question of when the Shock comes back,” Silver said. “Over time, there’s going to be a lot of expansion in the WNBA. That’s a first-class group led by [Gores].”
If the expansion bid is approved, the team will call the Little Caesars Arena home. This modern, state-of-the-art venue also serves as the home for the Detroit Pistons and Red Wings, making it an ideal location for the WNBA’s return to the city. The prospective ownership group behind the expansion team includes some of Detroit’s most influential figures, ranging from legendary former NBA players like Grant Hill and Chris Webber to prominent sports figures such as Jared Goff, quarterback for the Detroit Lions, GM CEO Mary Barra, and sports investor Roger Ehrenberg.
Eminem’s Cultural Influence in the Push
Eminem’s involvement in the bid carries even more significance, amplifying the cultural and community importance of bringing the WNBA back to Detroit. The rapper, known for his iconic status in both music and the city’s cultural landscape, has long been a devoted supporter of Detroit’s sports teams. His attendance at Detroit Lions games is a well-known part of his identity, and during the NFL team’s 2024 playoff run, Eminem made his allegiance to his hometown squad clear, openly supporting the Lions on his social media platforms. His involvement in the WNBA expansion effort further solidifies the connection between Detroit’s rich musical legacy and its sporting future, underscoring his commitment to his city’s growth and success on the global stage.
Detroit: Ready for a New Era of Women’s Basketball
Financially, the WNBA is stronger than ever before, with team valuations seeing impressive growth. The average team is now valued at an estimated $96 million, with the Las Vegas Aces leading the charge at a remarkable $140 million valuation. Over ten cities, including Austin, Charlotte, Cleveland, and Philadelphia, have submitted bids in the ongoing expansion cycle, but Detroit stands out as a prime contender. The city’s deep-rooted basketball culture, elite ownership backing, and an incredibly loyal fanbase create a potent combination that makes Detroit one of the most promising candidates for the next expansion wave.
This potential expansion is not just about basketball; it’s about reasserting Detroit’s influence in the national sports landscape, breathing new life into the city’s sports culture, and creating an entirely new chapter in the history of women’s professional sports. With Eminem’s involvement and a powerhouse of influential figures backing the effort, the WNBA’s return to Detroit feels not just possible, but inevitable. As the city rallies behind this goal, it is poised to embark on a new golden era for women’s basketball—one that will undoubtedly inspire future generations of athletes and fans alike.
