DETROIT (WXYZ) — The Detroit Pistons announced Wednesday they have purchased the G-League Northern Arizona Suns from the Phoenix Suns, and the team will begin playing at Wayne State University in 2021-22.
“I’m excited to welcome Tom Gores and the Detroit Pistons as NBA G League owners,” said NBA G League President Shareef Abdur-Rahim. “It’s always bittersweet for a team to relocate, and I thank Robert Sarver and the Phoenix Suns for their time in this league and the fans in Northern Arizona for their ongoing commitment to the team. I’m sure the fans in Detroit will welcome the team with open arms and I look forward to watching NBA G League basketball at Wayne State for seasons to come.”
“This is another important investment in our franchise and in the city of Detroit,” Owner Tom Gores said. “Having an NBA G League team near our new performance center will be an advantage for our front office, our coaching staff and our young players. It will also generate more economic activity in the area and serve as a catalyst for additional development.”
The team currently has a "hybrid" affiliation with the Grand Rapids Drive, and that will continue through the 2020-2021 season.
In May of 2019, the Pistons announced a partnership with Wayne State, including the G-Leauge team to play in a new arena being constructed for the university's basketball teams. It's less than two miles from Little Caesars Arena and the Henry Ford Detroit Pistons Performance Center.
The team will also work with the university on programs and internship opportunities.
