As the Detroit Lions enter the offseason, players have extra time to explore new ventures beyond football and enjoy personal pursuits. Quarterback Jared Goff is taking advantage of this break to embark on an exciting new endeavor—one completely unrelated to the NFL.
Jared Goff Joins Forces With Pistons Owner, Detroit Leaders
On Friday, January 31, Goff took to social media to reveal his involvement in an investment group led by Detroit Pistons owner Tom Gores. Their goal? Bringing a WNBA team back to Detroit. Though Goff hails from California, his commitment to the city is clear.
“I’m thrilled to join this inspiring group of leaders as we work to bring a WNBA team to Detroit! This is an incredible opportunity for our vibrant community and the most passionate fans in the country!” he shared on his Instagram story.
Joining Goff and Gores in the investment group are former NBA stars Grant Hill and Chris Webber, as well as Detroit Lions owner Sheila Ford Hamp.
Webber also shared the announcement on Instagram, writing, “Shout out to Tom Gores and the Ownership Group. We are focused on bringing a WNBA team Back to Detroit.”
Excited about the potential return of women’s basketball to the city, Webber added, “So excited for the fans in Michigan, the city of Detroit, women’s hoops, and for girldads like me… Was going to post about how much fun it is coaching my daughter’s second-grade team—THE CHEETAH GIRLS—but now I can’t wait until our next practice to tell them about this!”
Detroit’s WNBA History
Detroit was home to the WNBA’s Detroit Shock from 1998 to 2009. The franchise was highly successful, winning championships in 2003, 2006, and 2008. In 2010, the team relocated to Tulsa and later became the Dallas Wings in 2016. During its time in Detroit, the Shock consistently ranked among the top five teams in league attendance, even topping the charts in multiple seasons.
With the WNBA experiencing a surge in popularity—thanks to rising stars like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Cameron Brink—the timing seems right for Detroit to reenter the league. The city’s history of strong fan support makes it a prime location for expansion.
Goff’s wife, Christen, is also backing the bid and expressed her enthusiasm on social media with a hashtag and a blue heart, writing, “#LetsBringIt.”
Detroit Competes With Other Cities for a WNBA Team
Detroit isn’t alone in its push for a WNBA franchise. Other cities, including Houston, Philadelphia, and areas in Tennessee, are also vying for a team.
With Detroit sports on the rise—highlighted by the Lions’ success and Pistons star Cade Cunningham earning national recognition as an All-Star—it may be the perfect moment to bring professional women’s basketball back to the Motor City.
