Philadelphia is on the brink of a significant development in its sports landscape. Mayor Cherelle Parker has partnered with the Philadelphia 76ers in an ambitious bid to bring a Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) team to the city. This collaborative effort marks a new chapter for Philadelphia, a city with a rich basketball heritage.
A Renewed Effort After Initial Setbacks
The quest to host a WNBA team in Philadelphia is not a new endeavor. The first attempt occurred a few years ago, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite securing support from the governor, the city, and its legislative body, the effort fell short. Mayor Parker, however, remains undeterred. "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 passionately stated.
Unveiling 76 Place
The latest efforts to establish a WNBA team coincide with an equally significant project—the proposed new arena for the Sixers, named 76 Place. Recently, Parker delivered an extensive 80-slide presentation outlining the $1.3 billion project. Situated at Market and Filbert streets and between 10th and 11th streets, 76 Place is poised to become a centerpiece of Philadelphia's sports infrastructure.
The Sixers' current lease at the Wells Fargo Center runs through 2031. The transition to 76 Place is strategically planned to align with the end of this lease, with a new agreement extending the Sixers' commitment to Philadelphia until at least 2061. This long-term stability underscores the importance of the new arena, not just for the Sixers, but potentially for a future WNBA team as well.
Building a Dual Heritage
The synergy between the proposed 76 Place and the pursuit of a WNBA franchise is evident. "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 asserted.
The Sixers organization shares this vision. A spokesperson for the team affirmed their commitment: “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 unified approach strengthens Philadelphia's bid, positioning it as a compelling candidate in the WNBA's expansion plans.
WNBA's Expansion Trajectory
The WNBA is in a period of significant growth, expanding from 12 to at least 15 teams by 2026, with cities like Toronto and Portland slated to debut their teams in the near future. The Golden State Valkyries are set to join the league next season, with Commissioner Cathy Engelbert expressing confidence in the league’s potential to grow to 16 teams by 2028.
Philadelphia’s strategic efforts and the development of 76 Place could well position the city as a frontrunner for one of the new WNBA franchises. The combination of a world-class arena and a supportive local administration creates a robust foundation for success.
A Historic Legacy
The Philadelphia 76ers have a storied history, dating back to their relocation from Syracuse, N.Y., where they were known as the Syracuse Nationals, on May 22, 1963. Over the decades, the team has become an integral part of the city’s sports identity. By aiming to host a WNBA team, Philadelphia seeks to enrich this legacy, fostering growth in women's professional sports and providing new opportunities for athletes and fans alike.
The collaboration between Mayor Parker and the 76ers exemplifies a forward-thinking approach, aiming to elevate Philadelphia's status in the sports world. As the WNBA continues to expand, Philadelphia's concerted efforts may soon be rewarded, bringing women's professional basketball to the city and adding to its illustrious sporting heritage.