Philadelphia Sets Sights on Landing WNBA Team
In a bold and strategic move to expand the city’s sports landscape, Mayor Cherelle Parker has formed an alliance with the Philadelphia 76ers to bring a Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) team to Philadelphia. This marks a renewed effort after an initial attempt during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Parker, who recently presented a comprehensive 80-slide proposal for a state-of-the-art arena project titled "76 Place," is driven by a steadfast commitment to the cause. The proposed 76 Place arena, estimated at $1.3 billion, will be located between Market and Filbert streets and 10th and 11th streets. Parker passionately emphasized the city's enthusiasm and determination during a recent address.
“We were able to secure support from the governor, from the city, its administration and legislative body. Although they were not successful, you all know me. I don't take no easy. I want us to keep working extremely hard, as hard as we can, united together,” she declared, underscoring a spirit of resilience and community solidarity.
The 76ers have been pivotal partners in this initiative. They relocated from Syracuse, N.Y., on May 22, 1963, where they were originally known as the Syracuse Nationals. Their lease at the Wells Fargo Center is set to expire in 2031, aligning perfectly with the projected timeline to transition to 76 Place. The new arena agreement is designed to keep the Sixers in Philadelphia at least until 2061, a significant commitment that bolsters the city's sporting legacy.
The Sixers spokesperson confirmed the organization's alignment with Parker's vision, stating, “We share in Mayor Parker's desire to bring a WNBA franchise to Philadelphia and have been engaged with the league on the process. Our goal is for our new arena to serve as home to both the 76ers and a WNBA franchise.”
WNBA Expansion and Future Prospects
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has set an optimistic expansion plan for the league, which is currently growing from 12 to at least 15 teams by 2026. This includes the highly anticipated debut of the Golden State Valkyries next season and new teams in Toronto and Portland the following year. Engelbert has also expressed confidence that the league can expand to 16 teams by 2028.
Philadelphia’s bid aligns with this expansion timeline, and Parker is convinced that the new Sixers arena will enhance the city’s odds of landing a franchise. “I will tell you that with this new Sixers arena there, there is no one who can tell me that Philadelphia would just not have upped its position in trying, and trying to pursue a WNBA team for our great city,” she stated with conviction.
The potential addition of a WNBA team in Philadelphia would not only strengthen the city’s already vibrant sports culture but also provide a monumental boost to women’s sports in the region. The collaborative effort between Mayor Parker and the 76ers, coupled with the strategic timing of the WNBA’s expansion, positions Philadelphia as a formidable contender in securing a new franchise.
As anticipation builds, the city's sports fans eagerly await the outcome of these concerted efforts. With unwavering support from city leaders and a clear roadmap laid out, Philadelphia stands poised to embrace a new chapter in its rich sporting history.