In a bid to elevate Philadelphia as a premier basketball city, Mayor Cherelle Parker has joined forces with the Philadelphia 76ers to bring a Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) team to the city. The efforts to secure a WNBA franchise for Philadelphia have been ongoing for a few years, dating back to the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Parker recently presented an ambitious 80-slide proposal outlining plans for a new arena for the Sixers, dubbed 76 Place, which is set to be a transformative addition to the city’s sports infrastructure. Estimated to cost $1.3 billion, the proposed arena will be located at Market and Filbert streets and 10th and 11th streets, positioning it in the heart of Philadelphia.
“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,” emphasized Parker, showcasing her determination to bring a WNBA team to Philadelphia despite past setbacks.
The move to establish 76 Place as the new home for the Sixers comes as their lease at the Wells Fargo Center approaches its expiration in 2031. The Sixers, who relocated from Syracuse, N.Y., in 1963, aim to transition to their new venue by the end of their current lease. The new arena agreement extends their stay in Philadelphia at least until 2061, ensuring a long-term commitment to the city.
WNBA Expansion Plans
The timing for Philadelphia's push aligns with the WNBA's expansion plans. The league, currently with 12 teams, intends to expand to at least 15 teams by 2026. New franchises like the Golden State Valkyries are slated to join next season, with Toronto and Portland set to debut their teams following year.
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has been vocal about the league's growth prospects, projecting confidence that the WNBA can reach 16 teams by 2028. This expansion provides a ripe opportunity for Philadelphia to secure a team, feeding into the city’s historical and passionate basketball culture.
Community and Leadership Support
The community’s backing and the leadership's impetus play crucial roles. A Sixers spokesperson expressed solidarity 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.” This partnership underscores a collaborative approach toward achieving the shared goal of enhancing the city's basketball portfolio.
Parker believes that the new Sixers arena will fortify Philadelphia’s position in acquiring a WNBA team. “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 asserted.
The dedication to advancing Philadelphia's status as a hub for premier basketball, both on the men's and women’s fronts, reflects a broader trend of cities investing in sports infrastructure to attract professional teams and elevate local pride. If successful, this endeavor promises to add another chapter to Philly’s rich basketball narrative, making it a definitive destination for high-level basketball competition.