News Summary

Detroit is set to welcome a new WNBA expansion team in 2029, marking the city’s first professional women’s basketball franchise since the Detroit Shock. The team will play at Little Caesars Arena, and plans include a new practice facility on the riverfront. With notable investors and a strong local fanbase, excitement is building as the countdown to a new era in women’s basketball begins.

Exciting News for Detroit: WNBA Expansion Team Set to Launch in 2029!

Detroit, known for its deep-rooted basketball heritage, is all set to welcome a brand-new WNBA expansion team in 2029. On June 30, 2025, the WNBA made a big announcement that had basketball fans buzzing with excitement. The new team will make history as the first professional women’s basketball franchise to call the Motor City home since the Detroit Shock packed their bags for Tulsa in 2010.

Remembering the Glory Days of the Shock

Basketball fans in Detroit remember the Detroit Shock fondly; they were a powerhouse during their time, securing three championships in 2003, 2006, and 2008. The return of a professional women’s team is a wonderful way to rekindle the spirit and enthusiasm for women’s basketball in the city, especially among those who witnessed the Shock’s championships and incredible fan support that led the league in attendance.

Tom Gores Takes the Lead

At the helm of this exciting new venture will be Pistons owner Tom Gores, who will serve as the controlling owner of the upcoming franchise. The investment into this new team is significant, with a reported $250 million expansion fee paid, signaling serious commitment to the growth of women’s basketball in the area.

Minnesota-Style Expansion Continues

Detroit isn’t the only city getting in on the action. The WNBA is expanding its family with teams coming to Cleveland in 2028 and Philadelphia in 2030, bringing the total number of teams to 18 by 2030. This growth showcases the league’s increasing popularity and is a testament to the historic rise in viewership, attendance, and merchandise sales across the board.

Home Sweet Home at Little Caesars Arena

The new team will take to the court at Little Caesars Arena, providing fans with an electrifying atmosphere to support their favorite players. But that’s not all—there are plans for a brand new practice facility and headquarters at the former Uniroyal site on the scenic Detroit riverfront. This facility is not just a training site; it’s poised to become a youth sports academy and multisport complex, nurturing the next generation of athletes.

Excitement is Building!

The response from the local community has been overwhelmingly positive, with many fans reminiscing about the proud history of the Shock. Notable investors picking up a stake in the franchise include famous names like Jared Goff, Grant Hill, Chris Webber, and even Eminem—which is sure to add a touch of star power to the new team.

Some Have Questions… But Detroit is Ready!

Interestingly, not everyone is convinced about the expansion choices, as Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham has questioned the selection of Detroit and Cleveland for new teams. However, local supporters have rallied to defend their cities, fueled by a rich basketball legacy that includes illustrious players from Michigan high schools, such as Caitlin Clark and A’ja Wilson—influencing the growing popularity and visibility of women’s basketball.

A Season Awaits

The current WNBA regular season—which runs from May to September—features 13 teams this year, all playing a total of 44 games. As the league gears up for expansion, the excitement ahead is palpable. Detroit is ready to embrace a new era of women’s basketball, and it seems like the fan support and energy will be more than enough to pave the way for future successes.

With all signs pointing to an exhilarating future filled with slam dunks and thrilling plays, the return of women’s basketball to Detroit is just the beginning of a vibrant new chapter. Are you ready to cheer for this new team? The countdown to 2029 has officially begun!

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