Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker is collaborating with the Philadelphia 76ers to bring a Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) team to the city. This ambitious effort marks another chapter in Philadelphia's storied basketball legacy, and it aligns with the broader vision of expanding professional women's basketball across the United States.
A Renewed Effort
The first attempt to secure a WNBA team for Philadelphia took place a few years ago, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite falling short, Mayor Parker has remained steadfast in her mission. “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 stated.
Parker's unyielding determination has been buttressed by the Philadelphia 76ers' efforts. A team spokesperson affirmed, “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.”
The New Arena: 76 Place
Central to this vision is the development of a new arena for the Sixers, named 76 Place. Parker recently unveiled an extensive 80-slide presentation detailing the proposed arena project. Estimated to cost $1.3 billion, the arena is set to be located at Market and Filbert streets and 10th and 11th streets, adding vibrancy to the heart of Philadelphia.
The 76ers have a storied legacy in Philadelphia, having relocated from Syracuse, N.Y., where they were known as the Syracuse Nationals. They officially became part of the Philadelphia sports fabric on May 22, 1963. With their lease at the Wells Fargo Center expiring in 2031, the Sixers aim to transition to 76 Place by the end of that lease. The new arena agreement includes keeping the Sixers in Philadelphia until at least 2061, solidifying the franchise's long-term commitment to the city.
WNBA Expansion and Philadelphia's Bid
The WNBA is undergoing significant expansion, aiming to grow from its current 12 teams to at least 15 by 2026. New franchises, such as the Golden State Valkyries, will debut next season, followed by teams from Toronto and Portland in subsequent years. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has expressed confidence that the league can expand to 16 teams by 2028, creating a promising environment for new cities to join the league.
Mayor Parker believes the proposed new arena will bolster Philadelphia's chances of securing 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,” Parker said confidently. The addition of a state-of-the-art facility at 76 Place is viewed as a critical asset that could enhance the city's appeal to the WNBA.
With concerted efforts from city officials and the Philadelphia 76ers, and amidst a favorable expansion environment in the WNBA, Philadelphia is making a strong case to join the league. This move not only aligns with the city's rich basketball history but also signifies an important step for women's professional sports in Philadelphia. The commitment from both the city administration and the Sixers organization showcases the unified effort to bring another major sports franchise to the City of Brotherly Love.