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Detroit is poised to reclaim its legacy in women’s professional basketball, and the movement to bring a WNBA expansion team to the Motor City is gaining momentum, fueled by a powerful coalition of stars and influential figures. Eminem, one of Detroit’s most famous sons, has joined a high-profile group led by Detroit Pistons owner Tom Gores in an exciting effort to reintroduce a WNBA franchise to Michigan’s largest city. The backing of Detroit’s top sports figures—ranging from the owners of the Red Wings, Tigers, and Lions—speaks volumes about the city’s dedication to not only reviving but enhancing women’s basketball at the professional level.
Detroit’s Unified Push for a WNBA Franchise
As reported by Sportico on March 12, the WNBA’s expansion plans, initially set to add just one new team, have now expanded to include up to three new franchises. This exciting shift follows the league’s recent growth, with new teams established in cities like San Francisco, Toronto, and Portland. These expansions mark a thrilling chapter for the WNBA, providing a clear signal of the league’s rapid development and bright future.
Detroit’s pursuit of a WNBA team is not just about adding a new franchise—it’s about reviving a proud basketball tradition. The city was once home to the Detroit Shock, a team that achieved remarkable success before relocating to Tulsa, Oklahoma, and eventually to Dallas, where it became the Wings. According to NBA commissioner Adam Silver, the return of the Shock to Detroit is merely a matter of time. “I actually think it’s really just a question of when the Shock comes back,” said Silver. “Over time, there’s going to be a lot of expansion in the WNBA. That’s a first-class group led by [Gores].”
Should the proposal be approved, the team will play at the Little Caesars Arena, a state-of-the-art facility already home to the Detroit Pistons and Red Wings. The proposed ownership group includes a slew of prominent Detroit figures, such as NBA legends Grant Hill and Chris Webber, Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff, General Motors CEO Mary Barra, and sports investor Roger Ehrenberg, further enhancing the project’s credibility and potential.
Eminem’s Cultural Impact on the WNBA Push
Eminem’s involvement in the WNBA expansion effort is a powerful statement about Detroit’s commitment to its sports teams and its cultural influence. The rapper, who has been a vocal supporter of the city’s athletic programs, frequently appears at Detroit Lions games, demonstrating his pride in his hometown. In 2024, during the Lions’ playoff run, Eminem took to social media to express his unwavering support for the team. His support for the WNBA team adds a new layer of significance, tying together Detroit’s rich cultural and sports legacies and cementing his role as an advocate for the city’s continued rise in professional sports.
Detroit’s Readiness for the WNBA’s Return
The WNBA’s financial landscape is in the healthiest position it has ever been, with franchise valuations climbing steadily. The average WNBA team is now valued at around $96 million, with the Las Vegas Aces leading the pack at a valuation of $140 million. Over 10 cities have expressed interest in joining the league during this expansion cycle, including Austin, Charlotte, Cleveland, and Philadelphia. Despite the competition, Detroit’s deep basketball heritage, strong ownership backing, and a dedicated fan base make it one of the most promising candidates for the league’s next phase of growth.
This expansion is more than just a business venture; it’s about Detroit’s reassertion as a central hub of basketball excellence. The city has long been recognized for its passion and support of the sport, and bringing a WNBA team back to Detroit would not only revive a storied legacy but also create an entirely new chapter in the history of women’s professional sports. With Eminem’s involvement, along with a powerhouse of influential backers, the return of the WNBA to Detroit is not just a dream—it’s a movement, one that’s rapidly gaining steam and ready to launch the city into a new era of sports and community pride.
