Last Updated on June 16, 2026 by Mat Diekhake
The Detroit Pistons have had only a handful of principal owners throughout their history, making their ownership lineage relatively straightforward compared to many professional sports franchises.
Fred Zollner (1937–1974)
Fred Zollner founded the franchise in Fort Wayne, Indiana, as the Fort Wayne Zollner Pistons. An industrialist whose company manufactured engine pistons, Zollner helped establish the team as a professional basketball powerhouse and played a significant role in the early development of the NBA. He owned the franchise from its founding until selling it in 1974. (Wikipedia)
Bill Davidson (1974–2009)
Businessman Bill Davidson purchased the Pistons from Fred Zollner in 1974. Under Davidson’s ownership, the franchise enjoyed its greatest success, winning NBA championships in 1989, 1990, and 2004. He remained the team’s principal owner until his death in 2009. (Sportsnet.ca)
Karen Davidson (2009–2011)
Following Bill Davidson’s death, ownership passed to his widow, Karen Davidson. She served as the franchise’s owner during the transition period and ultimately negotiated the sale of the team in 2011. (Wikipedia)
Tom Gores (2011–Present)
Billionaire investor Tom Gores purchased the Detroit Pistons in 2011 through Platinum Equity. In 2015, he acquired the remaining ownership stake and became the franchise’s sole owner. Gores continues to lead the organization today. (Wikipedia)
Detroit Pistons Ownership Timeline
| Owner | Years |
|---|---|
| Fred Zollner | 1937–1974 |
| Bill Davidson | 1974–2009 |
| Karen Davidson | 2009–2011 |
| Tom Gores | 2011–Present |
The Pistons have had just four principal owners in franchise history, spanning from founder Fred Zollner to current owner Tom Gores. (retroseasons.com)