Philadelphia, a city steeped in basketball tradition, is making an ambitious push to bring a Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) team to its passionate fan base. Mayor Cherelle Parker has joined forces with the Philadelphia 76ers, aiming to realize this ambitious endeavor.
This isn't Philadelphia's first attempt to secure a WNBA franchise. The city previously sought to onboard a women's team during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Undeterred by past setbacks, Parker has showcased her relentless determination in this latest push. “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 asserted.
Central to this renewed effort is the proposed development of a new arena for the Sixers, dubbed 76 Place. This state-of-the-art facility is projected to cost a staggering $1.3 billion and boasts a prime location at Market and Filbert streets, spanning from 10th to 11th streets. Parker recently presented an extensive 80-slide deck detailing the proposed arena, which is earmarked to become the new home for the Sixers upon the expiration of their Wells Fargo Center lease in 2031.
The Sixers' relocation plans also align perfectly with the city's WNBA aspirations. “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,” Parker emphasized, underscoring the strategic value of the new venue in attracting a women's team.
A Sixers spokesperson echoed Parker’s enthusiasm and outlined the organization’s vision: “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.” This dual-purpose vision not only aims to elevate the Sixers' infrastructure but also seeks to solidify Philadelphia's status as a key basketball hub for decades to come. The new arena agreement would ensure the Sixers remain in Philadelphia until at least 2061.
The broader WNBA landscape, too, seems ripe for expansion. The league, currently planning to grow from 12 to at least 15 teams by 2026, has already seen the introduction of new franchises like the Golden State Valkyries, set to join the league next season. Additionally, Toronto and Portland are slated to debut their WNBA teams in the subsequent year. This period of expansion has been championed by WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, who has expressed confidence that the league can swell to 16 teams by 2028.
Should Philadelphia succeed, it would further cement the City of Brotherly Love as a cornerstone of professional basketball. The Sixers' storied history in Philadelphia dates back to May 22, 1963, when they relocated from Syracuse, where they were known as the Syracuse Nationals. With their lease at the Wells Fargo Center expiring in 2031 and the anticipation of a new home at 76 Place, the Sixers are positioning themselves at the nexus of tradition and the future.
For Parker, the pursuit of a WNBA team represents more than just bringing in another sports franchise. It is a testament to Philadelphia's enduring passion for basketball and its unwavering commitment to inclusivity and representation in sports. As the WNBA continues to grow, the potential addition of a Philadelphia team would not only enhance the league’s competitive landscape but also offer local fans the opportunity to support a women’s team with the same fervor they have shown the Sixers for decades.
With considerable support from city officials and stakeholders, Mayor Parker remains persistent and optimistic. The journey towards securing a WNBA team for Philadelphia may be arduous, but with aligned visions and steadfast determination, the dream of seeing a women's basketball team thrive in the heart of Philadelphia is increasingly becoming a tangible goal.