The city of Detroit is officially back in the WNBA spotlight after nearly two decades of absence, and it’s all thanks to the surprising leadership and vision of Detroit Lions owner Sheila Hamp and star quarterback Jared Goff. In what is being called one of the most exciting sports revivals of the decade, Detroit is now confirmed to be the home of a new WNBA franchise—marking the league’s triumphant return to the Motor City since the Shock left for Tulsa in 2009.
The announcement came during a stunning press conference hosted at Ford Field, where Hamp and Goff stood shoulder to shoulder with WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, smiling as the roaring crowd cheered. Sheila Hamp, a longtime advocate for women’s sports and equal opportunities in athletics, revealed that she had been working behind the scenes for nearly a year to make this dream a reality. According to sources close to the negotiations, the Lions’ ownership group was instrumental in financing the deal, securing sponsorships, and guaranteeing long-term commitment from the city’s key stakeholders.
But the biggest twist in the story came when Jared Goff, Detroit’s Pro Bowl quarterback, emerged as a major player in the effort. Goff, who is coming off his best NFL season yet, didn’t just lend his name—he invested heavily in the new franchise both financially and personally. From helping with marketing strategies to creating buzz across his social media and even lobbying city officials, Goff’s involvement helped give the league the confidence that Detroit is ready for the big stage once again.
This new WNBA franchise will play its home games at Little Caesars Arena, sharing the venue with the Detroit Pistons and Red Wings. Renovations and upgrades specifically designed to elevate the women’s game are already underway. The team name, branding, and executive hires will be revealed later this summer, but league insiders report that interest from top coaches and elite college players is already sky-high.
Basketball fans in Detroit are already celebrating the news, flooding online forums and local meetups with excitement. For many longtime residents, this moment represents more than a sports victory—it’s a symbol of Detroit’s resurgence as a cultural and athletic powerhouse. Former WNBA Detroit Shock legends like Swin Cash and Deanna Nolan have also voiced their support for the project, promising to return to the city to mentor and inspire the next generation of talent.
With the growing popularity of the WNBA, this Detroit revival could not have come at a better time. TV ratings, attendance, and merchandise sales have all reached record highs in recent seasons. Detroit’s entry into the league not only adds a new chapter to the WNBA story but also ignites a new era of pride for the Motor City. Thanks to the efforts of Sheila Hamp and Jared Goff, professional women’s basketball is home again in Detroit, and the future looks brighter than ever.