Sources have told the Detroit News that Flint-native Tom Gores has emerged as the front runner to become the new owner of the Detroit Pistons. Team owner Karen Davidson hopes to have the franchise sold by the end of October before the new season starts.

The 46-year old Gores owns Platinum Equity and according to Forbes Magazine is worth 2.2 billion dollars. He’s a graduate of Michigan State and owns a home in Grosse Ile. Gores is a youth soccer and basketball coach.

Among those also in the running to purchase the Pistons is Red Wings and Tigers owner Mike Ilitch.