Less than a week after the Detroit Pistons and Cleveland Cavaliers battled it out in the first round of the NBA Playoffs, the teams' two owners could be coming together to try to get a Major League Soccer team in Detroit.
Tom Gores and Dan Gilbert confirm that they are partnering up to bring MLS to Detroit. The MLS commissioner will be in Detroit this week for a meeting to discuss the expansion plan.
“I’ve always believed a sports franchise is a community asset with the power to unite and inspire people,” said Gores. “I’m excited to partner with Dan and help in Detroit’s resurgence. Together we have all the tools we need to make a new team successful.”
“Soccer is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world with a passionate fan base and global reach,” said Gilbert. “Bringing a team downtown will also further energize Detroit’s urban core, which is critical to the entire city’s overall health and vibrancy.”
Both men were tweeting each other on Monday, with Gores even subtly referencing soccer by saying they should "kick around" ideas.
Hey @TomGores, you know what's great about sports? One moment you're rivals & the next day, you can be rooting for the same team…
— Dan Gilbert (@cavsdan) April 26, 2016
You're right, @cavsdan. Let's “kick around” some ideas and try to make something happen. https://t.co/BjRfYsQuEI
