Latest news with #DanGilbert
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Fever's Sophie Cunningham Had Strong Words After WNBA's Big Change
Fever's Sophie Cunningham Had Strong Words After WNBA's Big Change originally appeared on Athlon Sports. The WNBA made a landmark announcement on Monday: the league will expand to 18 teams by 2030, welcoming franchises in Cleveland (2028), Detroit (2029) and Philadelphia (2030). Advertisement Each new ownership group, led respectively by Dan Gilbert, Tom Gores and the Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment consortium, paid a record $250 million expansion fee. Commissioner Cathy Engelbert hailed the move as "a powerful reflection of our league's extraordinary momentum," pointing to the depth of talent across the league and surge in commercial value and investment in women's basketball. But for the Indiana Fever's Sophie Cunningham, the decision was one to approach with caution. When asked on Tuesday about the league's choice of expansion markets, Cunningham acknowledged the upside of more roster spots but questioned whether Detroit or Cleveland would ignite sustained fan passion. Advertisement "You just get more opportunities," she said, "and so I get that aspect. But I also think that you want to listen to your players, too—where do they want to play? Where are they going to get excited to play and draw fans? I do think that Miami would have been a great one. Like, everyone loves Florida. Nashville is an amazing city. Kansas City, amazing opportunity... But man, I don't know how excited people are to be going to Detroit or Cleveland." A 2019 second‑round pick (No. 13 overall) out of Missouri, Cunningham arrived in Indiana via a four‑team trade in February after six seasons with Phoenix. At Missouri, she left as the program's all‑time leading scorer (2,187 points) and free‑throw leader (537), earning Third‑team All‑American honors in 2019. Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham (8) dribbles against the Atlanta Dream in the first half at State Farm Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images This season with the Fever, she's averaged 5.6 points and 4.1 rebounds in 22.2 minutes per game, shooting 34% from the field and a career‑best 94.1% from the foul line. Advertisement Cunningham's comments reflect a balancing act for the WNBA: how to harness an unprecedented growth spurt, fueled by breakout stars like her teammate Caitlin Clark, without diluting the on‑court product or stretching talent too thin. Related: Stephanie White Breaks Silence After Missing Chicago Sky Game Related: WNBA Reacts to Caitlin Clark's Actions During Chicago Sky Game This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 1, 2025, where it first appeared.
Forbes
2 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
A New Dawn For Detroit, And For A Landmark Downtown Building
Roost Detroit's extended stay hotel and apartments give new life to the historic Book Building and Tower Detroit's Book Tower, a century-plus to the good and still standing proud. As a grizzled native of the much-maligned Motor City (once derided by cynics as the Murder City), it did my heart proud to visit family and friends there recently, and enjoy a remarkably safe and serene stay in the heart of downtown. Housed within the historic Book Building and adjacent Book Tower on Washington Boulevard--once home to bustling offices, circa 1917 and 1926, respectively--are 229 apartments and the stunning 117-room Roost Apartment Hotel. To merely say the buildings had a facelift would be a gross understatement: resurrection would be closer to the truth. Like many downtown buildings before it (around 80!), the new life for these historic structures is owed to the vision and munificence of one Dan Gilbert of Rocket Mortgage and Bedrock Detroit, his bustling real estate development company. Seven years and some $300-plus million dollars later, the once-disused and vacant ghost building is teeming with fresh life and activity while maintaining the ornate elegance of architect Louis Kamper's Italian Renaissance masterpiece. The limestone facade is pearl-white again, the green copper roof looks brand new and the delightfully curious dozen sculptures of unclothed women adorning the exterior appear to be ready for their collective closeup, modesty be damned! The newly restored Book Bldg. atrium Four stories of the Book Building are now home to 117 studio and one- and two-bedroom units perfect for weekend getaways or extended stays alike. The handsomely-appointed rooms are equipped with full kitchens and are completely furnished, including a convenient washer/dryer setup replete with detergent pods. ROOST even supplies fresh La Colombe coffee beans for guests to grind and then brew (with Bonavita hardware) an artisanal cup of coffee that obviates the need to visit one of the hipster java joints in the neighborhood. That's seven bucks you can then spend on a couple of gut-busting chili dogs at nearby Lafayette Coney Island, a not-to-be-missed Detroit hangout. Living area at ROOST, cheery and spacious, with great city views. Then again, if the good life at ROOST has so induced rest and relaxation that you prefer to wear your slippers downstairs, there are a handful of fabulous places to grab a bite or sip your beverage of choice on the premises. Le Supreme is a Parisian-style brasserie that is art-directed to resemble the real Frenchified deal, augmented by Detroit music posters to give the local cultural legacy its just desserts. Speaking of which, the in-house bakery--visible from the lobby through capacious windows, a very nice touch--serves a delightful French pastry basket for its weekend Sunday brunch, alongside a savory quiche Lorraine and a nicely-curated French cheese selection. Red leather banquettes inside and and shrub-shrouded tables outside complete the urban/rustic effect to the very letter. C'est magnifique! Sakazuki If you need further proof that Philadelphia-based Method Co.--responsible for ROOST's unique dining concepts--is at the pinnacle of cool when it comes to design and execution, the Japanese-style pub Sakazuki is the picture of funky elegance and a great spot for sake and casual bites like wagyu burgers and ekiben (akin to the bento boxes sold at Tokyo train stations). And Hiroki-San, in the lower level of Book Tower, features authentic Japanese fare like yakitori and ramen, as well as imported wagyu and sashimi, all in an elegant and intimately-lit interior with seating for up to 108 patrons, including a dozen lucky guests at the chef's counter. And the lobby-level Bar Rotunda sits beneath the 100-year-old Keppler glass dome and is an all-day cafe and wine bar where elbow-to-elbow scenesters bring the place to vibrant life nightly. Kamper's Rooftop Lounge--perched on Book Tower's 14th floor--is a comfy way to take in starlit city views and make with the de rigueur tapas and cocktails ritual. Unbelievably cool decor with a sophisticated vibe to match! Detroit skyline from ROOST Yes, you can stay within the confines of this beautifully-restored property and eat, drink and socialize to your heart's content, but you'd be denying yourself access to one of America's great second act stories--the city of Detroit itself! Downtown used to be a fairly depressing tableau of abandoned buildings and homelessness, but is now a leisure and entertainment hub that strikes new visitors as a less frenetic, pocket-sized Manhattan. All three major sports franchises--the Lions, Tigers and Red Wings--are located within walking distance or a short drive, and the restored Detroit International RiverWalk spans three miles and is perfect for hikers and bikers, children and adults alike. And don't forget to visit the Detroit Institute of Arts to admire Diego Rivera's murals as well as stopping by Jack White's Third Man Records--an impressive facility with a vinyl pressing plant and ice-cool retail space. The Motor City may no longer be burning, but it is FIRE! And, it goes without saying, the ROOST rules.
Hans India
2 days ago
- Business
- Hans India
WNBA announces expansion to 18 teams with Cleveland, Detroit and Philadelphia added
New York: The Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) announced a major expansion to 18 teams, with new teams in Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia. This expansion, subject to WNBA and NBA Boards of Governors approval, marks a significant milestone in the WNBA's commitment to growing the game. The three new teams join the league's 15 existing teams, including the Golden State Valkyries, who tipped off play in May 2025, as well as the previously announced expansion markets in Toronto, Canada (2026) and Portland, Oregon (2026). The Cleveland team will begin play in 2028, followed by Detroit in 2029, and Philadelphia in 2030. As per the statement by the WNBA, each location was selected based on an analysis of market viability, committed long-term ownership groups, potential for significant local fan, corporate, media, and city and state support, arena and practice facilities, and community commitment to advancing the sport, among other factors. 'The demand for women's basketball has never been higher, and we are thrilled to welcome Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia to the WNBA family,' said WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. The new WNBA team in Cleveland will be owned and operated by Rock Entertainment Group (REG), the umbrella entity that houses REG Chairman Dan Gilbert's sports and entertainment properties under the Rock Family of Companies. Dan Gilbert acquired the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2005, and under his leadership, the team has won the Central Division seven times, five Eastern Conference titles, and, most notably, the 2016 NBA Championship. 'The WNBA's return to Cleveland marks a pivotal moment for women's sports. Years from now, we will reflect on this day as a truly monumental point in Cleveland sports history,' said Rock Entertainment Group Chairman Gilbert. The Detroit WNBA ownership group is led by Tom Gores, his wife Holly, and some of the most accomplished women and men in global sports, business, entertainment, media, and finance. Gores is the owner of the Detroit Pistons. The WNBA is also making its return to Detroit, where the Shock played from 1998-2009, winning three championships. The Philadelphia WNBA Team will be owned and operated by Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment and join the organization's dynamic global sports portfolio. The team will be an extension of HBSE's commitment to delivering high-performing teams that strengthen the communities where they play.
National Post
2 days ago
- Business
- National Post
Cleveland, Detroit, Philadelphia are set to join the WNBA as expansion franchises starting in 2028
Article content A look at the three expansion teams that the WNBA is adding over the next few years: Article content Cleveland Article content Article content First year of play: 2028. Article content Majority ownership group: Dan Gilbert, who owns the Cleveland Cavaliers. Where they'll play: Rocket Arena, home of the Cavaliers. Article content Practice facility: Retrofit a facility in Independence, Ohio, that is currently used by the Cavaliers. Article content What they're saying: 'They're a ready-made operation, arena, demographic, the psychographic, all the data, those numbers,' WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert said. 'I'm a data geek. All the data we've been looking at as it relates to what would make a successful franchise and obviously look no further than what we already did in the Bay Area.' Article content Article content Detroit Article content First year of play: 2029. Article content Majority ownership group: Tom Gores, who owns the Detroit Pistons. Article content Minority owners: Grant Hill, Chris Webber, Jared Goff. Where they'll play: Little Caesars Arena, home of the Pistons. Article content Practice facility: Building a new facility. Article content What they're saying: 'I think this will be bigger than just the basketball team coming back. It's recognition of all the things that are happening in the city. And finally, I think it's going to have a real economic impact,' Pistons vice chairman Arn Tellem said. Article content Philadelphia Article content Majority ownership group: Josh Harris, who owns the Philadelphia 76ers. Where they'll play: A new arena being built in downtown Philadelphia. Article content Practice facility: The 76ers have a practice facility in Camden, New Jersey. Article content What they're saying: 'Philly fans are passionate, they are full on. They hold you accountable and they hold everyone accountable, the players, the team, the ownership and, you know, we embrace that and embrace them,' said Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment Managing Partner and co-founder Josh Harris, who owns the 76ers. 'There's a lot of names who've come out of Philly women's and men's basketball, and there are a lot of girls playing basketball in Philly right now and this is something that needed to happen.' Article content
Toronto Sun
2 days ago
- Sport
- Toronto Sun
Cleveland, Detroit, Philadelphia are set to join the WNBA as expansion franchises starting in 2028
Published Jun 30, 2025 • 1 minute read The WNBA logo is seen near a hoop before an WNBA basketball game at Mohegan Sun Arena. Photo by Jessica Hill / The Associated Press A look at the three expansion teams that the WNBA is adding over the next few years: This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account. Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments. Enjoy additional articles per month. Get email updates from your favourite authors. THIS ARTICLE IS FREE TO READ REGISTER TO UNLOCK. Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments Enjoy additional articles per month Get email updates from your favourite authors Don't have an account? Create Account First year of play: 2028. Majority ownership group: Dan Gilbert, who owns the Cleveland Cavaliers. Where they'll play: Rocket Arena, home of the Cavaliers. Practice facility: Retrofit a facility in Independence, Ohio, that is currently used by the Cavaliers. What they're saying: 'They're a ready-made operation, arena, demographic, the psychographic, all the data, those numbers,' WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert said. 'I'm a data geek. All the data we've been looking at as it relates to what would make a successful franchise and obviously look no further than what we already did in the Bay Area.' Detroit First year of play: 2029. Majority ownership group: Tom Gores, who owns the Detroit Pistons. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Minority owners: Grant Hill, Chris Webber, Jared Goff. Where they'll play: Little Caesars Arena, home of the Pistons. Practice facility: Building a new facility. What they're saying: 'I think this will be bigger than just the basketball team coming back. It's recognition of all the things that are happening in the city. And finally, I think it's going to have a real economic impact,' Pistons vice chairman Arn Tellem said. Philadelphia First year of play: 2030. Majority ownership group: Josh Harris, who owns the Philadelphia 76ers. Where they'll play: A new arena being built in downtown Philadelphia. Practice facility: The 76ers have a practice facility in Camden, New Jersey. What they're saying: 'Philly fans are passionate, they are full on. They hold you accountable and they hold everyone accountable, the players, the team, the ownership and, you know, we embrace that and embrace them,' said Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment Managing Partner and co-founder Josh Harris, who owns the 76ers. 'There's a lot of names who've come out of Philly women's and men's basketball, and there are a lot of girls playing basketball in Philly right now and this is something that needed to happen.' Toronto Maple Leafs Canada Relationships Sunshine Girls Sunshine Girls
