Eminem joined forces with Detroit sports leaders to bring a WNBA team back to the city with plans to launch the franchise in 2029.
Eminem is officially stepping into the sports ownership arena as part of the newly announced WNBA expansion team in Detroit, which is scheduled to hit the court in 2029.
The WNBA confirmed earlier this week that Detroit, along with Cleveland and Philadelphia, will each receive a new franchise, bringing the league total to 18 teams.
The Motor City’s ownership group is anchored by Tom Gores, owner of the Detroit Pistons, and features a high-profile lineup including Marshall Mathers, Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff, former NBA stars Grant Hill and Chris Webber, Lions principal owner Sheila Hamp, and General Motors CEO Mary Barra.
The group reportedly shelled out $250 million for the expansion fee, signaling a serious investment in the future of women’s basketball in Detroit. The team will play its home games at Little Caesars Arena, with plans underway for a new training facility and team headquarters along the city’s riverfront.
“This is a huge win for Detroit and the WNBA,” Gores said in a statement. “Today marks the long-hoped-for return of the WNBA to a city with deep basketball roots and a championship tradition. Detroit played a key role in the league’s early growth, and we’re proud to reignite that legacy as the WNBA ascends to new heights.”
Eminem’s involvement in the WNBA team is more than just a business move. Known for his deep ties to Detroit, the Hip-Hop veteran is using his platform to uplift local sports and youth development efforts.
The WNBA’s expansion comes at a time of surging popularity, with record-setting viewership numbers and merchandise sales driving national momentum.
