Philadelphia's Bid for a WNBA Team Gains Momentum
In a significant development for women's sports and the city of Philadelphia, Mayor Cherelle Parker has teamed up with the Philadelphia 76ers to bring a Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) team to the city. This renewed effort comes on the heels of a previous attempt a few years ago, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, which ultimately did not materialize.
The initiative has garnered broad-based support, reflecting a concerted effort from various stakeholders. "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 easily. I want us to keep working extremely hard, as hard as we can, united together," Parker emphasized, indicating her relentless determination.
A Vision for a New Arena
Parker's recent 80-slide presentation detailed plans for a new state-of-the-art arena for the Sixers, dubbed 76 Place. The project, which is estimated to cost $1.3 billion, is attractively situated between Market and Filbert streets and 10th and 11th streets. The new arena is envisioned to serve a dual purpose as the home court for both the Philadelphia 76ers and a future WNBA team.
A spokesperson for the Sixers endorsed the mayor'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 endorsement indicates a unified objective between the local government and the flagship NBA team to elevate the city's status in professional basketball circles.
A Timeline for Transition
The Philadelphia 76ers, who relocated from Syracuse, New York, where they were known as the Syracuse Nationals, to Philadelphia on May 22, 1963, are currently under a lease agreement at the Wells Fargo Center, set to expire in 2031. The Sixers plan to transition to the new 76 Place by the end of their current lease, ensuring their presence in Philadelphia through at least 2061. This long-term commitment underscores the city’s dedication to maintaining its status as a basketball hub.
WNBA Expansion on the Horizon
Meanwhile, the WNBA itself is in a period of growth, expanding from 12 to at least 15 teams by 2026. New franchises like the Golden State Valkyries are scheduled to join next season, followed by the debut of teams from Toronto and Portland the following year. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has expressed confidence in the league's ability to reach 16 teams by 2028.
Parker’s optimism about securing a WNBA team for Philadelphia is buoyed by these expansion plans. "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," the mayor declared, illustrating her belief in the synergy between the new arena project and the city's sporting ambitions.
With Mayor Parker’s persistent leadership and the solid backing of the Sixers, Philadelphia stands poised to become a key player in the next chapter of WNBA expansion. If successful, this initiative could cement Philadelphia further as a major sports destination, promoting not only the growth of women's basketball but also the broader sports culture within the city.