The Professional Women's Hockey League announced today that Hilary Knight, one of the most decorated players in U.S. women's hockey, has agreed to a two‑year contract extension with the Detroit expansion franchise. The deal locks the 36‑year‑old forward into the roster for the upcoming 2025‑26 season, reinforcing the team's commitment to building a competitive foundation from day one.
Knight's career spans multiple milestones: she captained the Seattle franchise in the league's inaugural season, led the Olympic women's team to a gold medal in Milan, and amassed a wealth of experience on the international stage. Her presence is expected to accelerate the development of younger talent and raise the profile of the sport in Detroit.
In a statement released to the media, Knight expressed enthusiasm about contributing to the growth of women's sports in the city. "I'm excited to be part of something that can change the landscape for future generations," she said, emphasizing her desire to help the team establish a lasting legacy.
A Coach With Local Roots
The club will be guided by Josh Sciba, a Westland native who previously served as an assistant with the New York Sirens and honed his craft at the University of Notre Dame. Sciba described the appointment as both an honor and a responsibility, noting that leading the team feels like a natural extension of his deep ties to the region.
Sciba's coaching philosophy aligns with the organization's vision of competitive excellence and community engagement. His familiarity with the local hockey ecosystem is expected to facilitate strong connections with fans, sponsors, and grassroots programs.
The expansion roster will consist of 23 players, a size designed to balance depth and flexibility as the league prepares for its inaugural season. With Detroit joining three other new franchises, the PWHL will now feature a twelve‑team landscape, each club playing a 30‑game schedule.
Points will be allocated according to a predetermined formula that rewards regulation wins, overtime victories, and shootout outcomes, adding a strategic layer to each contest. The top four teams in the final standings will qualify for the playoffs, with the regular‑season champion granted the privilege of selecting its first‑round opponent.
Beyond the on‑ice action, the signing of a star like Knight signals a broader ambition: to embed women's professional hockey firmly within the cultural fabric of Detroit. By leveraging the city's industrial heritage and passionate fan base, the league hopes to create a sustainable model that can be replicated in markets across North America.
Fans can look forward to a debut season that promises high‑stakes competition, community outreach initiatives, and a showcase of elite talent. As the team finalizes its roster and prepares for its first training camp, the excitement surrounding the franchise continues to build.