Eminem

made a surprise appearance at the Detroit Pistons’ official debut at Little Caesars Arena on Wednesday night, marking the team’s return to the city after four decades in Detroit’s suburbs. The iconic rapper, donned in a blue Pistons shirt and black hoodie, electrified the crowd as he strode courtside to the tune of his hit “Lose Yourself.”

Taking the microphone from announcer John Mason, Eminem hyped up the audience with a heartfelt welcome: “Detroit, welcome them back for the first time in over 40 years to our city, to my city, to your city! Make some noise for the Detroit Pistons. Let’s go!” He then joined his manager Paul Rosenberg and producer and D12 group member Denaun Porter at a courtside seat.

This event marked the Pistons’ first regular-season NBA game in Detroit since they left Cobo Arena in 1978, having played in Pontiac and Auburn Hills for the interim years. Eminem’s appearance came just nine days after another high-profile public engagement, following a long hiatus from the U.S. spotlight.

Eminem’s presence at the event was seen by some as a statement from the Pistons organization, especially in light of Kid Rock’s controversial opening concert series at the new arena the previous month.

Pistons coach Stan Van Gundy praised the decision to involve Eminem, noting it was a subtle yet powerful statement. “I thought just having Eminem up there was great as a Detroit guy,” Van Gundy said after the Pistons’ 102-90 victory over the Charlotte Hornets. “I thought it was great of (Pistons owner) Tom (Gores) — and if (NBA commissioner) Adam Silver was involved — to think about that. I think without making any statement, they were able to make a statement by involving Eminem in it.”

The opening night at Little Caesars Arena was filled with additional hometown touches. Detroit rapper Big Sean was also present, and local hip-hop tracks played throughout the night. Detroit rapper Dej Loaf performed on the court ahead of the game, and Manny Torres, a Flushing native and former “American Idol” contestant, sang the national anthem. At halftime, Skylar Grey, a previous collaborator with Eminem, performed her fitting song “Coming Home” on the piano.

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