Gores, Investors Bid for Detroit WNBA Franchise

Detroit Pistons owner Tom Gores, along with a team of influential investors, has submitted a formal bid to bring a WNBA franchise back to Detroit. The bid is supported by prominent figures such as Detroit Lions owner Sheila Hamp, GM CEO Mary Barra, and former basketball stars Grant Hill and Chris Webber. The potential team would play at Little Caesars Arena and have its own dedicated practice facility and headquarters. Detroit has a rich history with the WNBA, previously hosting the Detroit Shock, who won three championships before relocating in 2009. The city is competing with Nashville, Philadelphia, and other contenders for the league's 16th franchise, set to start in 2028. This initiative is seen as an opportunity to revitalize women's basketball in Detroit and stimulate local investment and community unity.