Ilitch Companies has unveiled a substantial investment in the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL), signaling a decisive push to accelerate the league’s growth and solidify its place in North American sports.
The move builds on a legacy that stretches back to 1968, when the Ilitch family began backing hockey at every level, from the Detroit Red Wings to community youth programs.
A Compelling Narrative for the Future of the Sport
Chris Ilitch, chief executive of Ilitch Companies, described the PWHL’s ascent as one of the most compelling stories in professional sports today, underscoring the league’s potential to reshape perceptions of women’s athletics.
The partnership between Ilitch Sports + Entertainment and the PWHL has already borne fruit, most notably at Little Caesars Arena, which hosted the league’s inaugural neutral‑site game in 2024 before a crowd of more than 13,700 fans.
Detroit’s upcoming franchise will join eight existing teams this season, with four additional clubs slated to enter for the 2026‑27 campaign, marking a significant expansion of the league’s footprint.
Ryan Gustafson, president and CEO of Ilitch Sports + Entertainment, emphasized that investing in leagues shaping the future of sport is a priority, noting that bringing the PWHL to Detroit will grow the game, increase visibility for elite women athletes and inspire the next generation.
The initiative reflects a broader surge of interest in women’s sports, as fans, sponsors and media outlets increasingly recognize the talent and competitiveness of female hockey players.