This browser does not support the Video element.
DETROIT (WJBK) - Detroit Pistons owner Tom Gores and Cleveland Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert announced today they are partnering to bring a Major League Soccer (MLS) team to downtown Detroit.
A news release says the ownership group's efforts are supported by MLS and its commissioner Don Garber, who recently announced plans to grow the league to 28 teams and identified Detroit as market of great interest.
The MLS commissioner will be in Detroit this week and will meet with the potential ownership group to discuss their expansion plan. It will include the construction of a stadium in downtown Detroit.
Major League Soccer has experienced a period of unprecedented growth during the last 12 years, doubling in size from 10 to 20 clubs since 2004. The process and timeline for expansion to 28 clubs will be announced in the coming months.
Gores and Gilbert had a little fun with the announcement earlier on Twitter.
"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...," Gilbert tweeted.
"You're right, @cavsdan. Let's "kick around" some ideas and try to make something happen," Gores responded.