Detroit Pistons owner Tom Gores’ bid to bring a WNBA team back to town has reportedly lost out to Cleveland, which is expected to be the location for the league’s 16th franchise. However, there may be some good news for Detroit fans – the WNBA is reconsidering its original plan to add just one team and may add two more in addition to Cleveland.
According to reports, the league received over 10 bids from NBA owners, including Detroit Pistons owner Tom Gores, who submitted a formal bid along with a group of big-name investors. However, it appears that Cleveland will be the city to welcome the WNBA’s 16th franchise.
While the WNBA has not officially confirmed its finalists, reports suggest that Cleveland’s chances are as high as 90%. The league is still working through its process and evaluating proposals from interested ownership groups in various markets.
However, Detroit’s bid may not be entirely lost. The Sports Business Journal reported that after receiving a ton of interest in an expansion franchise, the WNBA is reconsidering its plan to add just one team. Cities like Philadelphia, Houston, Nashville, and Miami are currently being considered for additional franchises.
If Detroit were to secure either the 17th or 18th franchise, the group’s reported plan would be to revive the legacy of the Detroit Shock, a former WNBA expansion team that was in Detroit from 1998-2009. The team won three titles during its time in town and was known for its successful era.
Gores had expressed enthusiasm for bringing the WNBA back to Detroit, stating that it would bring investment and economic activity into the city. If Detroit were picked down the line, the team’s plan would be to play games at Little Caesars Arena and eventually secure a separate practice facility.
Source: https://eu.freep.com/story/sports/nba/pistons/2025/02/16/tom-gores-detroit-wnba-expansion-cleveland/78897922007