Exciting news for Detroit and WNBA fans! WNBA basketball may return, reigniting residents’ and fans’ passion for the sport. Discussions between the Pistons’ organization and the WNBA have sparked a glimmer of hope, hinting at the revival of professional women’s basketball in the Motor City.
The Detroit Shock, the city’s former WNBA team, had an impressive track record before relocating to Tulsa in 2009. The Shock had a 210-186 (.530) regular-season record in twelve seasons and a 30-19 (.612) playoff record. In their last five seasons, the Shock averaged 9,216 fans per game and had a 103-67 (.605) record.
Despite their success on the court, financial struggles plagued the franchise, culminating in a $2 million loss in its last season, leading to the sale and relocation of the team. However, as Detroit considers possibly welcoming back a WNBA team, addressing these concerns is essential. What will be different this time to ensure financial stability? Potential investors can find reassurance in knowing that lessons from the past have been learned. The Pistons’ organization is reportedly exploring new revenue streams, including robust local sponsorship deals and community partnerships. Additionally, better financial management and a strategic marketing plan to boost attendance and fan engagement are critical components of the new strategy.
WNBA Detroit: Renewed Hope for Women’s Basketball’s Return
Why Would A WNBA Detroit Team Be Good For The League?
From a city that was once the nation’s laughing stock due to corrupt politicians and bad money management, Detroit has emerged from the shadows to become a beacon of hope. Between July 1, 2022, and July 1, 2023, the population in Detroit increased by 1,852 people from 631,366 to 633,218. Detroit’s resilience was fully displayed during the NFL draft, where the city shattered the attendance record with 775,000 fans gathering at Campus Martius Park.
Loyalty To The Sports Teams
The numbers may not always tell the whole story, but Detroit fans are known for their unwavering loyalty to their sports teams, especially when those teams are performing well. Ford Field was rocking once the Detroit Lions emerged as a top team in the NFL. Little Caesars Arena buzzed with energy when the Red Wings were in the playoff hunt. Comerica Park was a sight to see during the Tigers’ successful runs. Unlike LCA today, the Pistons’ former Auburn Hills home was notoriously tricky for opponents.
The history of fans showing up for the Shock is there. Fans would drive 45 minutes to Auburn Hills to watch them play before women’s basketball’s popularity took off. Today, with women’s basketball enjoying greater visibility and support, a WNBA team in Detroit is poised to thrive more than ever.
Where Would A WNBA Detroit Team Play?
Little Caesars Arena
If a new franchise is awarded, the team could find its home in the prestigious Little Caesars Arena, the home ground for the Pistons and the Red Wings. This venue offers state-of-the-art facilities, ample seating capacity, and a prime location in Detroit, ensuring easy access for fans and a formidable home-court advantage for the team. Little Caesars Arena seats 20,332, which is ideal for hosting stars like Caitlin Clark or Angel Reese in Detroit.
Calihan Hall
If you are looking for a venue that could quickly sell out based on the past attendance history, Calihan Hall might be a good spot. Calihan is the home of the collegiate basketball U of D Titans. The stadium was built in 1952 and served as the home of the Detroit Pistons in the late 50’s. The downside of the stadium could be the location. Despite being in a college area, it is in a neighborhood where people might not be comfortable coming to see a game.
Wayne State Field House
Built-in 2021, this stadium hosts the Pistons’ G-League affiliate, Motor City Cruise, bringing everything Pistons-related to Detroit. The major problem with this being an option is the capacity. The stadium only holds 3,000 people. The stadium is new and state-of-the-art, but better options for hosting a returning team exist.
The Last Word
This is amazing to see for women’s basketball. These athletes work as hard as their male counterparts and deserve more recognition. With the impending expansion in Golden State and Toronto in 2025 and 2026, the league is poised for significant growth. If the WNBA were smart, they would capitalize on the popularity Detroit is gaining. Detroit’s rising popularity as a travel destination is no mistake; the city’s identity has completely transformed.
Reviving a WNBA team in Detroit isn’t just nostalgic; it’s a strategic step to boost women’s basketball in a supportive city. With loyal fans and strategic venues, Detroit’s resurgence makes it ideal for WNBA expansion.
