Detroit officially enters PWHL as 9th franchise

May 6, 2026 | IW Magazine

In a press conference earlier today, the PWHL welcomed Detroit as its ninth franchise, set to debut next season at Little Caesars Arena.

IW reported earlier this week that Detroit was set to officially introduce its team, as the PWHL begins its four-team expansion process – one down, three to go.

“Detroit has been part of PWHL history since the beginning; from the support shown at our first-ever neutral site game at Little Caesars Arena, the city and fans have helped lead the way for the future of pro women’s hockey,” said Amy Scheer, PWHL Executive Vice President, Business Operations. “Led by our incredible partner Ilitch Sports + Entertainment, Detroit proved time and time again they are ready for a team of their own. We are so proud to permanently join Hockeytown with the introduction of PWHL Detroit.”

As IW also first reported on Tuesday, Detroit will host the 2026 PWHL Awards Ceremony on June 16, followed by the 2026 PWHL Draft on June 17. Both events will take place at Fox Theatre.

“The Detroit area and the state of Michigan have one of the strongest youth hockey development systems in the world, especially for girls, which is further exemplified by world-class facilities at Little Caesars Arena and a deep commitment from Ilitch Sports + Entertainment to advancing our sport,” said Jayna Hefford, PWHL Executive Vice President, Hockey Operations. “We are honored to bring the PWHL to a sports community where women and girls have already put hockey on the map, and advance that incredible culture by offering young athletes a professional league they can strive for.”

The PWHL is expected to gradually announce three new teams later this month, with several markets speculated to be in the mix for a new franchise.

Las Vegas, Denver, Calgary, Halifax, Pittsburgh, Buffalo, Chicago, Washington, Hamilton, Quebec City, Winnipeg, Los Angeles, San Diego and Raleigh are among the cities rumoured to be under consideration for a team.

Edmonton was also under consideration for a new team, but as IW reported earlier this week, they are out of the running for this round of expansion.