(WWJ) A big new marijuana business in Detroit has some star power behind it.
NBA Hall of Famer Chris Webber has broken ground on new $50 million operation and training facility, which will focus on real estate, development, cannabis cultivation, brand partnerships, creative content, development and management.
Speaking to reporters at what will be the site of the "Players Only Holdings" facility in Corktown on Tuesday, Webber said he's quite knowledgeable about when it comes to cannabis...and he uses it, too.
"I've actually been able to study and use these remedies myself, and have a successful career," Webber told WWJ's Mike Campbell. "So we believe in the product as well."
The 180,000 square-foot square foot compound — which will feature a 60,000 square foot cultivation area, an 8,000 square foot dispensary, and a private cannabis consumption lounge — is expected to create hundreds of new jobs in the city over the next three years.
Webber also announced the expansion of Cookies U into Detroit and an exclusive distribution partnership with Michigan operator, Gage Growth Corp., for Players Only branded cannabis products.
“This Detroit training and operations facility is only the first step in bringing tangible opportunities to the people of this city – one that means so much to me – while eliminating barriers to an industry with unlimited economic potential,” said Webber." We will create, foster and provide a cannabis ecosystem that celebrates diversity, creates jobs, and benefits this community – focusing intensely on those who are being left behind. As social equity programs struggle in many states, we are here to support legacy operators who created the foundation for this industry so that they are included in future iterations of it while we wait on the politics to catch up.”
Webber, 48, attended Detroit Country Day School, where he was the most recruited Michigan high school basketball player since Magic Johnson before playing for University of Michigan, where he led the Fab Five.
"If Detroit wins, that's what it's about. So hopefully I can make Detroit proud," Webber said.
Construction is slated to begin this fall with first phase completion expected in March 2022.