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PWHL Grants Detroit Ninth Franchise for 2026–27

The decision signals a larger expansion push this offseason.

Overview

  • Detroit’s new team was announced Wednesday, and the city will host the 2026 PWHL Awards on June 16 and the entry draft on June 17 at the Fox Theatre.
  • League leaders credited Detroit fans and local operators for the nod after four PWHL Takeover games drew more than 53,000 fans, including 15,938 on March 28.
  • The team’s name and logo are still in development, and the first sweater will feature a diagonal “Detroit” in black and silver with a red accent.
  • Beyond Detroit, the league told players it intends to pursue a four-team expansion, while an executive said two, three, or four additions remain possible this offseason.
  • Reporting points to San Jose as a leading candidate, with the SAP Center undergoing a $425 million renovation and a West Coast team seen as easing travel for Seattle and Vancouver.