Philadelphia is once again buzzing with excitement as Mayor Cherelle Parker joins forces with the Philadelphia 76ers to bring a Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) team to the city. This ambitious endeavor marks a renewed effort after initial attempts, which began during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, fell short despite securing broad-based support.
Pioneering Vision for Women's Basketball
Undeterred by previous setbacks, Mayor Parker has demonstrated her characteristic resilience and determination. "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," Parker emphasized, underscoring her commitment to bringing a WNBA franchise to Philadelphia.
The road to achieving this vision involves more than just advocacy. Parker recently unveiled an extensive 80-slide presentation on a proposed new arena for the 76ers, dubbed 76 Place. The project, estimated to cost $1.3 billion, is poised to transform the urban landscape at Market and Filbert streets and 10th and 11th streets.
A New Era for the Sixers
This state-of-the-art facility not only aims to enhance the Sixers' home court but also serves as a potential venue for the incoming WNBA team. “I will tell you that with this new Sixers arena, 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 stated confidently.
The 76ers have a storied history in the city, having relocated from Syracuse, N.Y., where they were known as the Syracuse Nationals, to Philadelphia on May 22, 1963. Their current lease at the Wells Fargo Center is set to expire in 2031, paving the way for a seamless transition to 76 Place.
Commitment to the Community
With plans in place to make 76 Place their new home by 2031, the agreement ensures the Sixers remain in Philadelphia until at least 2061. This long-term commitment signifies the team's dedication to the city and its sports community. A Sixers spokesperson echoed these sentiments: “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.”
Exciting Prospects for the WNBA
The timing could not be better. The WNBA is in the midst of an expansion from 12 to at least 15 teams by 2026, with new franchises like the Golden State Valkyries set to join next season and teams in Toronto and Portland following a year later. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has expressed confidence that the league can grow to 16 teams by 2028.
The prospect of bringing a WNBA team to Philadelphia aligns with this expansion strategy, offering a unique opportunity to bolster the city’s representation in professional women’s sports. The synergy between the new arena and the incoming WNBA team could set the stage for a transformative period for basketball in Philadelphia. The realization of this vision not only honors the sport's heritage in the city but also brings exciting prospects for future generations of basketball fans.
As stakeholders work tirelessly behind the scenes to turn these plans into reality, Philadelphia stands on the brink of becoming a dual basketball powerhouse, showcasing top-tier talent from both the NBA and the WNBA. The collaboration between city officials and sports organizations represents a forward-thinking approach to fostering growth, community engagement, and sporting excellence.