DETROIT—The 5th Annual GameAbove Detroit Sports Commission Golf Classic returned to Oakland Hills Country Club on June 2, bringing together sports, civic, and business leaders for a day of championship golf and celebrating Detroit as a global destination for world-class sporting events.

This year, the Golf Classic welcomed a new title sponsor, GameAbove—a privately held global investment company with strong ties to the Detroit region. GameAbove is rooted in philanthropy, with over $38 million donated to education, special causes, and youth sports. Its sports division GameAbove Sports invests globally in thoughtfully chosen sports teams and initiatives, serving as a strategic partner focused on promoting the future of sports excellence.

Held at one of the world's most iconic golf venues, the event spotlighted the impact of the Detroit Sports Commission (DSC) and the critical role sports play in driving economic vitality, civic pride, and national recognition for the region.

Proceeds and partnerships from events like the Golf Classic help fund DSC's Living Legacy Initiative, which supports youth literacy programs and access to sports for local youth—particularly young girls in underrepresented communities.

In 2024, the DSC raised more than $1.5 million to support community programs in southeast Michigan, ensuring the impact of major sporting events extends beyond downtown.

"GameAbove is deeply committed to making a positive impact on our community through sports," said GameAbove Entertainment CEO Matt Shepard. "The Detroit Sports Commission does so much more than bring sporting events to our city. They are dedicated to leaving a lasting impact on the next generation of Detroit youth and we are proud to help them in their mission."

In addition to competitive golf across Oakland's historic North and South courses, guests enjoyed networking with top executives, media personalities, and community leaders, live broadcasts from WJR and 97.1 The Ticket, a silent auction showcasing rare sports memorabilia, and a cocktail reception hosted by Emmy-winning broadcaster Mike Tirico, who recognized valuable event partners including title sponsor GameAbove.

"We're incredibly fortunate to have the support of so many passionate individuals and organizations who believe in the power of sports to shape Detroit's future," said Tirico. "And none more so than our title sponsor, GameAbove Sports, whose commitment has elevated this event into something truly special."

Additional event partners included presenting sponsors UTEC and KLA Labs, food and beverage sponsors DTE, Burns & Wilcox and MGM Grand, media partners WJR and 97.1 The Ticket/Audacy, and production partners Dietz Sports and Entertainment.

"This event represents more than just a day on the course—it's a celebration of Detroit's momentum," said Marty Dobek (https://detroitsports.org/staff-directory/marty-dobek/4), Executive Director of the Detroit Sports Commission. "We're proud of what we've accomplished, but we're even more excited about where we're headed."

2024 was a historic year for Detroit sports thanks to events like the record-breaking NFL Draft which drew over 775,000 fans and generated $161.3 million in direct spending. March Madness also returned to Little Caesars Arena in 2024, with the Sweet 16 and Elite Eight driving $8.3 million in visitor spending.

Looking ahead, both GameAbove and DSC are preparing for high-profile events.

GameAbove Sports is the proud owner of Motor City's all-new BIG3 basketball team, the Detroit Amplifiers. Its inaugural season tips-off on June 14 in Chicago at Allstate Arena. The Amps, led by head coach and NBA Hall of Famer George Gervin and three-time BIG3 MVP Joe Johnson, will play at Little Caesars Arena on Sunday, July 20. Tickets are on sale now at big3.com/tickets. The 2025 GameAbove SportsTM Bowl at Ford Field will be played on Friday, December 26 at 1 PM ET and will be televised on ESPN.

Major DCS events include the 2027 NCAA Men's Final Four at Ford Field, the 2028 Big Ten Women's Basketball Tournament, and the 2028 NCAA Midwest Regional at Little Caesars Arena.

"Every sponsor, donor, and participant help us write Detroit's next chapter," added Dobek. "We're not just hosting events—we're building something lasting."