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Ilitch Companies today announced an investment in the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL), reinforcing its belief in the league’s momentum, long-term potential, and role in shaping the future of professional women’s hockey.
The investment reflects Ilitch Companies’ long-standing commitment to men’s and women’s hockey at every level. From the Detroit Red Wings and Little Caesars Arena to the Little Caesars AAA Hockey Club, which has developed generations of players since 1968, the organization has helped strengthen the game across the region and create opportunities for athletes, families, and fans.
“The PWHL's rise has been one of the most compelling stories in professional sports, and we are proud to be part of that story,” said Chris Ilitch, CEO of Ilitch Companies. “Investing in the PWHL means an opportunity to broaden the game’s reach, connect with new fans, and create pathways for athletes for generations to come. Our organization has long believed in the power of hockey to bring communities together and open doors for the next generation. From supporting youth and amateur hockey for nearly 60 years to investing in the future of women’s professional hockey, we are proud to help advance the game at every level.”
The investment also builds on Ilitch Companies’ and Ilitch Sports + Entertainment’s growing partnership with the PWHL, which includes bringing record-setting professional women’s hockey games to Little Caesars Arena, supporting the league’s expansion in Detroit, and helping host the 2026 PWHL Awards Ceremony and Draft in Detroit.
Little Caesars Arena hosted the league’s first-ever neutral-site game during its inaugural season in 2024, drawing more than 13,700 fans. In total, Detroit has hosted four PWHL games over three seasons, the most of any neutral-site city, including a then-U.S. arena attendance record for women’s hockey in 2025 and a Little Caesars Arena women’s hockey attendance high of nearly 16,000 during the 2026 Takeover Tour.
These moments made clear that Detroit is ready to support professional women’s hockey at the highest level. The PWHL announced expansion earlier this year, with the team set to debut during the 2026-27 season and play home games at Little Caesars Arena.
While Detroit is an important part of the story, Ilitch Companies’ investment is in the PWHL as a league and designed to support its broader growth across North America. As of the 2025-26 season, the PWHL’s single-entity structure is comprised of eight teams — Boston, Minnesota, Montréal, New York, Ottawa, Seattle, Toronto, and Vancouver — with Detroit, Hamilton, Las Vegas, and San Jose added as the 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th teams ahead of the 2026-27 season.
"We're proud to deepen our partnership with the PWHL as the league enters this next chapter," said Ryan Gustafson, President and CEO of Ilitch Sports + Entertainment. "Investing in leagues that are shaping the future of sports is core to who we at Ilitch Sports + Entertainment. The continued rise of women’s hockey reflects a growing appetite for elite competition and meaningful fan experiences. We’re excited to support that momentum and play a role in connecting the league with new fans while helping elevate the sport’s profile.”
Bringing the PWHL to Detroit is about more than adding another team to the market. It is about growing the game, increasing visibility for elite women athletes and inspiring the next generation of girls and young women who now have a professional team to look up to right here in Michigan.
