Philadelphia's pursuit of a Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) team is gaining momentum, thanks to efforts spearheaded by Mayor Cherelle Parker and the Philadelphia 76ers. A few years ago, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the city made its first bid to bring a WNBA team to Philadelphia. Although that effort was not successful, it laid the groundwork for a renewed 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," remarked Mayor Parker, emphasizing her unwavering commitment to this goal.
The Vision for 76 Place
Central to this renewed effort is the proposed new arena for the Sixers, dubbed 76 Place. Mayor Parker recently delivered an 80-slide presentation on the state-of-the-art facility, estimated to cost $1.3 billion. Located at Market and Filbert streets and 10th and 11th streets, 76 Place is envisioned as not just a sports venue but a transformative project for the city.
The Sixers, who relocated to Philadelphia from Syracuse, N.Y., where they were known as the Syracuse Nationals, have been a staple of the city’s sports culture since May 22, 1963. Their current lease at the Wells Fargo Center expires in 2031, and the team aims to transition seamlessly to 76 Place by then. The new arena agreement ensures that the Sixers will call Philadelphia home until at least 2061.
Mayor Parker believes that the development of 76 Place will catalyze Philadelphia's aspirations for 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 stated confidently.
A Shared Goal
The Philadelphia 76ers have also expressed their support and involvement. "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," said a Sixers spokesperson.
The WNBA is currently expanding from 12 to at least 15 teams by 2026, presenting a timely opportunity for Philadelphia. New franchises like the Golden State Valkyries are set to join the league next season, followed by teams in Toronto and Portland the following year. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has expressed confidence in the league’s growth trajectory, stating that the WNBA could expand to 16 teams by 2028.
A Collaborative Effort
Bringing a WNBA team to Philadelphia is more than just a sports initiative; it's a community effort. Mayor Parker and the Sixers are rallying support from various stakeholders, including government officials and local businesses, to turn this vision into reality. The potential economic and social impact of having a WNBA team in Philadelphia is significant, promising increased visibility for women's sports and enhanced community engagement.
As the city continues to work towards securing a WNBA franchise, the collaborative energy between Mayor Parker, the Sixers, and the broader community is palpable. Their shared determination signals a bright future for basketball in Philadelphia, with the promise of both an architectural marvel in 76 Place and the addition of a WNBA team that will inspire generations to come.
Philadelphia’s sports landscape is on the brink of a transformation. With steadfast commitment and a clear vision, the city is making significant strides toward its goal of hosting a WNBA team, underscoring its status as a vibrant hub for both men's and women’s professional basketball.