Detroit Eyes a WNBA Comeback with Trademark for "Detroit Shock"
At Extreme Investor Network, we keep our finger on the pulse of the latest business developments that could shape the future landscape of sports and entertainment. Recently, a significant move in the realm of women’s professional basketball has caught our attention—one that could signal the reemergence of a beloved team in the Motor City.
As cities across the nation jockey for the opportunity to host the next Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) franchise, the league has taken a bold step by filing a trademark application for the name "Detroit Shock." Dated Thursday, this filing indicates the intended use encompasses not only a basketball team but also merchandise, jerseys, and promotional materials, shedding light on the possible revival of a franchise that once had a storied history in Detroit.
A Historic Franchise in the Making
The original Detroit Shock, established in 1998, showcased an impressive legacy, clinching three WNBA championships during their tenure in Auburn Hills, Michigan—proving that the city not only supports its teams but also celebrates their successes. Although the Shock relocated to Tulsa in 2009, and currently play as the Dallas Wings in Arlington, Texas, the recent trademark application suggests that the WNBA is serious about reintroducing this franchise to its passionate fan base.
Tom Gores, owner of the Detroit Pistons, has already made his move by leading a bid to bring a new WNBA team to Detroit. His ownership group includes prominent figures such as Sheila Ford Hamp, principal owner of the Detroit Lions; former Pistons stars Grant Hill and Chris Webber; General Motors CEO Mary Barra; and Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff. "Detroit is a sports town that loves its teams deeply and consistently shows up with unwavering passion," Gores emphasized in a statement—a sentiment that mirrors the city’s dedication to its sports culture.
A Shifting Landscape for Women’s Sports
The trademark application represents the only submission from the WNBA since early December, according to Josh Gerben, a well-respected trademark attorney in the field. Notably, the WNBA retains ownership of the names and logos of its franchises, which is distinctive compared to other professional sports leagues where individual teams manage their own trademark rights.
This recent application could signify that Detroit’s bid is favored, as Gerben speculates that the filing is not only a strategic move for the league but also serves as a protective measure against potential trademark squatters. Interestingly, a conflicting application for the "Detroit Shock" was submitted by an individual named Ryan Reed in July 2023, highlighting the competitive landscape surrounding the brand identity of sports teams.
A Growing Interest in Expansion
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has stated that the league is in no rush to expand but aims to integrate a 16th team by 2027 or 2028. Currently, there are at least ten cities—Cleveland, Kansas City, Philadelphia, St. Louis, Houston, Austin, Nashville, and Milwaukee—that have expressed a strong interest in hosting a women’s professional basketball team. The buzz around potential expansion reflects a growing recognition of the value and popularity of women’s sports.
At Extreme Investor Network, we believe the revival of the Detroit Shock would not only celebrate the rich history of women’s basketball in the city but also align with broader trends in sports equity and investment. With the potential for increased sponsorship opportunities and community engagement, Detroit stands poised to once again be a cornerstone in the world of women’s sports.
Stay tuned for more updates and in-depth analysis on this evolving story, as we continue to explore how these developments could impact investors and fans alike.