PWHL expanding to Detroit for 2026-27 season
The New York Times • • sports
Key Points:
- The Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) announced the expansion of a new team, PWHL Detroit, set to begin play in the 2026-27 season at Little Caesars Arena, joining eight existing franchises.
- Detroit was chosen due to its strong hockey culture, existing fan support, and infrastructure, with Ilitch Sports and Entertainment partnering with the league to support the team under the PWHL's single-entity ownership model.
- The team will feature black, silver, white, and red colors, with Ally Financial as its inaugural partner; the permanent name and logo will be revealed later, and the team will wear "Detroit" jerseys in its first season.
- Detroit will host the 2026 PWHL Awards and entry draft at the Fox Theatre, further integrating the city into the league's growing footprint and fan engagement efforts.
- The league is considering up to four expansion teams for the 2026-27 season, with the expansion roster-building process expected to begin on May 28, though final decisions on the number of teams remain pending.
