Will The Pistons Return To Detroit Under The Ownership Of Gores?
AUBURN HILLS (CBS DETROIT/AP) - The owner of the Detroit Pistons apparently wants his team to play ball--in Detroit. Tom Gores has hired agent Arn Tellem as vice chairman of Palace Sports and Entertainment.
Tellem's first task when he signs on in August will be to meet with representatives from Ilitch's Olympia Entertainment. From that gathering could be the seed of moving the Pistons downtown according to The Detroit News.
The hiring was announced Friday by Tom Gores, who owns the Pistons and Palace Sports & Entertainment. Gores says in a statement that Tellem "can be a catalyst for change in the community" and described his move to The Palace as "a big win for Detroit."
Tellem will have responsibility for business strategy, public affairs, planning and development, and strengthening the connection between Pistons and Palace Sports and the community. He'll also be responsible for the Pistons business operations.
Pistons coach Stan Van Gundy will continue to lead basketball operations.
Tellem is expected to join the Palace Sports on Aug. 3 after transitioning from his current post as vice chairman of Wasserman Media Group.
Oakland County executive L. Brooks Patterson has said he would oppose any effort by the Pistons to leave the Palace.
The Pistons played in Olympia Stadium and Cobo Arena in Detroit from 1957 to 1978.
When the Joe Louis Arena opened as home to the Detroit Red Wings, Pistons owner Bill Davidson chose to move his team to the Pontiac Silverdome - where they played for the next 10 years until Davidson built The Palace of Auburn Hills.
Tom Gores purchased the Detroit Pistons and a controlling interest in The Palace in 2011.
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