Rapper Eminem teams up with a group aiming to restore WNBA team to Detroit, first return since 2009.
Let's Talk Eminem and the Potential WNBA Franchise in Detroit
Eminem, the city's beloved hometown hero, is jumping on board to bring some limelight to Detroit by joining forces with the big guns of the city's major league sports teams and other notable figures. The rapper, along with players like Detroit Lions' quarterback Jared Goff, is aiming to secure a women's basketball team for the Motor City.
According to Sportico, the price tag for this endeavor could run into the nine figure range, with the average cost of a franchise estimated at around $96 million.
The city's not the only one eyeing a slice of the WNBA pie. Over a dozen cities are vying for the opportunity, with Cleveland, Austin, and Philadelphia also in the running.
Given the league's growing popularity, it's expected that between one to three new franchises could be added to the WNBA roster soon.
Detroit had a taste of WNBA action in the past, but the Detroit Shock moved to Tulsa after the 2009 season despite claiming three championships during their seven seasons in the city. If the plans materialize, the new team will call Little Caesars Arena, home of the NBA's Detroit Pistons and the NHL's Detroit Red Wings, as their home turf.
While Eminem's role is yet to be finalized, he's shown active interest in reviving Detroit's WNBA presence, building on prior efforts, including support from GM CEO, Mary Barra. The financial commitment remains undisclosed, but considering recent expansion fees, ranging from $50-$100 million, it's safe to say that Detroit fans have a ballpark idea of the investment required. The bid emphasizes Detroit's strong basketball culture and existing infrastructure, including Little Caesars Arena, making it a strong contender for the league's expansion. No formal timeline for Detroit's potential entry has been announced, but the league's ongoing expansion into new markets indicates a positive momentum for the Motor City.
Eminem, along with other Detroit figures, aims to secure a WNBA team for the city, as the cost of starting a franchise is estimated to be around $96 million, according to Sportico. Other cities such as Cleveland, Austin, and Philadelphia are also vying for the opportunity, making Detroit's bid competitive. Given the growing popularity of the WNBA, it's expected that between one to three new franchises could be added to the league soon. If successful, the new WNBA team in Detroit would play at Little Caesars Arena, home to the NBA's Detroit Pistons and NHL's Detroit Red Wings.
