Eminem Teams Up With Detroit Investors to Bring WNBA Back to the Motor City

Eminem, the iconic rapper and Detroit native has joined a group of prominent investors aiming to secure a Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) expansion team for Detroit. This initiative is led by Tom Gores, owner of the Detroit Pistons, and includes several notable figures from the city’s sports and business communities.

Key Takeaways

• Eminem is part of a bid group seeking to bring a WNBA team back to Detroit.
• The group is led by Tom Gores, owner of the Detroit Pistons, and includes other major sports team owners.
• Detroit previously had a WNBA team, the Shock, which won three championships before relocating.
• The WNBA is considering expanding to multiple cities, with Detroit among the frontrunners.

Eminem’s Role in the Bid

Eminem’s involvement in the bid is a reflection of his deep ties to Detroit and his passion for local sports. Known for his unwavering support of the city’s teams, Eminem’s celebrity status could significantly boost the visibility and appeal of the proposed WNBA franchise.

The bid group also includes:

• Sheila Ford Hamp (Detroit Lions owner)
• Denise Ilitch (Detroit Red Wings and Tigers owner)
• Former NBA stars Grant Hill and Chris Webber
• Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff
• General Motors CEO Mary Barra

The WNBA’s Expansion Plans

The WNBA is currently exploring expansion opportunities, with initial plans to add one new team. However, due to increased interest, the league may expand by up to three teams. This comes as the WNBA experiences a surge in popularity, with new franchises already confirmed for San Francisco, Toronto, and Portland.

Detroit’s WNBA History

Detroit has a rich history in women’s basketball, having hosted the WNBA team, the Shock, from 1998 until 2009. During their tenure, the Shock achieved remarkable success, winning three championships. The team eventually relocated to Tulsa and is now known as the Dallas Wings.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has expressed support for bringing a WNBA team back to Detroit, stating that the city “needs to get a WNBA team again.”

Community Impact and Future Prospects

The potential return of a WNBA team to Detroit is seen as a significant opportunity for community engagement and support for women’s sports. Eminem and the investor group believe that a new franchise would serve as a unifying asset for the city, fostering pride and excitement among residents.

As the WNBA aims to add a 16th team by 2028, the timeline for announcements regarding new franchises remains uncertain. However, the enthusiasm surrounding Detroit’s bid suggests that the Motor City is ready to embrace women’s professional basketball once again.

Sources

• Eminem Joins Detroit WNBA Expansion Group, Rolling Stone.
• Eminem Part of Detroit’s WNBA Expansion Group Led by Tom Gores, Sportico.com.
• Eminem Joins Bid to Bring WNBA Expansion Team to Detroit: Report, Billboard.
• Eminem Joins Bid Group for WNBA Team in Detroit, Hypebeast.
• Eminem joins investors hoping to bring WNBA back to Detroit, USA Today.