The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) has revealed plans to introduce a ninth team based in Detroit for the upcoming season, marking the league’s third expansion since its inception in 2024. This move aligns with the PWHL’s strategy to expand its presence in the United States and secure a significant American broadcasting rights deal.
Detroit, known for its rich hockey heritage and as the birthplace of PWHL stars like Megan Keller and Abby Roque, was selected as the new team location. The decision was influenced by the enthusiastic response from fans during the four PWHL games held in the city, with attendance peaking at 15,938 spectators.
The initiative to bring a PWHL team to Detroit was spearheaded by Ilitch Sports + Entertainment, the entity behind NHL’s Detroit Red Wings and MLB’s Detroit Tigers. However, ownership of the Detroit team will rest with The Walter Group, the organization overseeing all nine PWHL teams under a unified ownership structure.
The team will play its home games at Little Caesars Arena and utilize the BELFOR Training Center for practices. The franchise’s colors, black, silver, and white with a touch of red, symbolize Detroit’s innovative and industrial essence, reflecting the resilience of Metro Detroiters.
Chris Ilitch, president and CEO of the Ilitch Companies, expressed excitement about the addition of a PWHL team to Detroit, emphasizing the role of sports in contributing to the city’s ongoing revitalization efforts. Amy Scheer, the PWHL’s executive vice president of business operations, highlighted the importance of top-notch facilities in determining expansion locations, ensuring dedicated spaces for players and staff during game days and practices.
With Detroit becoming the fourth PWHL team to call an NHL arena home, joining Seattle, New York, and Minnesota, the league anticipates further growth. The league also announced that Detroit will host the PWHL Awards and Draft in June.
Detroit is one of up to four new markets expected to join the PWHL in the upcoming season, part of The Walter Group’s strategic plan for sustained development. The league’s expansion strategy aims to enhance its appeal to sponsors and media, driving long-term success for its players.
As the league prepares for the upcoming season, details on roster building and the entry draft process for PWHL Detroit remain undisclosed. While an expansion draft is not currently in the works, negotiations continue between the players association and the league to establish a framework for integrating new teams and existing players.
The league remains focused on fostering competitive balance across all teams while prioritizing the player experience and input in the expansion process. This meticulous approach underscores the PWHL’s commitment to ensuring a fair and engaging environment for its athletes.