Detroit, Philadelphia, and Cleveland Set to Join WNBA by 2029
The WNBA is making major moves, officially announcing its expansion to 18 teams — with Detroit, Philadelphia, and Cleveland set to receive new franchises. The Detroit team, backed by an ownership group that includes rap icon Eminem, will begin league play in 2029.
This marks a significant return for the WNBA to Detroit, a city with a rich basketball legacy. The team will be primarily funded by Detroit Pistons owner Tom Gores, who celebrated the decision in a statement: “This is a huge win for Detroit and the WNBA… Our plans will bring new energy, investment, and infrastructure to our city and the league.”
Gores emphasized the diverse investment group supporting the team, which includes Eminem, Lions quarterback Jared Goff, and former NBA star Grant Hill. “I’m excited about what we can accomplish together to advance women’s professional sports and inspire a new generation of fans,” Gores added.
Eminem, a longtime Detroit sports supporter, has recently become a more visible presence in the city’s athletic scene. From hyping up Lions playoff runs to appearing at the NFL Draft and performing at the 2022 Super Bowl halftime show, Slim Shady’s influence continues to grow — now extending into women’s basketball.
The move is being hailed as a major step forward for both Detroit and the WNBA.