Ten years ago, in a pivotal meeting with Detroit Pistons owner Tom Gores, he laid the foundation for an ambitious vision — one without boundaries or limitations. We recognized that Detroit's greatest strength lies in its collaborative spirit and unwavering pride. Our strategy wasn't just about business; it was about becoming an integral part of Detroit's remarkable revitalization story. This vision materialized through transformative partnerships. Our move downtown and collaboration with the Ilitch organization led to the creation of 313 Presents and the Pistons calling Little Caesars Arena home, revolutionizing Detroit's entertainment landscape. Our partnership with Henry Ford Health and Michigan State is transforming New Center, establishing a world-class medical campus that serves as both a health care destination and a catalyst for neighborhood renewal. Now, we're writing the next chapter with the return of the WNBA to Detroit. This team will bring a new generation of sports stars to the city and inspire girls to dream big about the possibilities of success on and off the court. And it’s about more than adding another major professional team to the Detroit sports landscape. We fully intend to build a team that competes for championships on a consistent basis and our ambitions extend far beyond the court. We aim to utilize the team’s platform to create economic opportunities, support women’s and youth sports and provide Detroit’s youth access to top-tier sports facilities to further their growth and development. Bringing 22 more home games and other related events to the Detroit sports calendar each year will spur economic activity at bars, restaurants, and hotels around downtown Detroit. Additionally, our plans for the team’s state-of-the-art headquarters include a youth development academy to promote youth sports and address the lack of access and equity among youth sports facilities in Detroit. Along with WNBA team facilities, the plans include indoor basketball and volleyball courts for community use, as well as outdoor fields for youth soccer, flag football and other activities. The realization of this bold vision will only be possible through collaboration to ensure that the sum is greater than the collection of its parts. We've assembled an extraordinary ownership group that reflects Detroit's diversity and excellence — from Sheila Ford Hamp and Mary Barra's pioneering leadership to the hometown pride of Grant Hill, Chris Webber and Jared Goff. The sports lineage and additional support from respected figures like Ethan and Gretchen Davidson and Denise Ilitch along with all our other accomplished investors further strengthens our commitment to Detroit's future. Under Tom's leadership, we've united an unprecedented coalition of leaders who have been instrumental in Detroit's transformation. When presenting this WNBA opportunity, the response was overwhelmingly positive — a testament to Detroit's unified spirit. With backing from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Mayor Mike Duggan and numerous community partners, we've demonstrated that Detroit moves forward as one. Detroit and Michigan's foundation for success is unparalleled. We're home to global automotive giants like GM and Ford, innovative companies like Rocket, prestigious institutions including the University of Michigan, Michigan State, Wayne State and University of Detroit Mercy, world-class health care through Henry Ford Health and a sports culture that's second to none. This ecosystem creates a powerful platform for growth across technology, research, finance, health care, sports, entertainment and culture. We're not just building businesses; we're creating a future where our talented youth see Detroit as a place of unlimited opportunity and innovation. Each success and partnership strengthens our collective ability to achieve even more, proving that when Detroit comes together, there are no limits to what we can accomplish. That’s been Tom’s vision and commitment from the very beginning. The WNBA initiative isn't just about bringing another professional sports team to Detroit — it's about continuing our city's momentum and showing the world what Detroit does best: turning bold visions into reality through unity, determination and pride in our community. Arn Tellem is the vice chairman of the Detroit Pistons. Submit a letter to the editor at freep.com/letters, and we may publish it online and in print. Like what you're reading? Please consider supporting local journalism and getting unlimited digital access with a Detroit Free Press subscription. We depend on readers like you.