Philadelphia is making strides towards hosting its own Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) team, thanks to a renewed effort led by Mayor Cherelle Parker in collaboration with the Philadelphia 76ers. This initiative marks a significant step forward in a campaign that began a few years ago during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic without much success.
New Arena Sparks New Hopes
Mayor Parker recently presented an ambitious plan featuring an 80-slide presentation that detailed a proposed new arena for the Sixers, named 76 Place. The project, which is estimated to cost a staggering $1.3 billion, is intended to be located at Market and Filbert streets and 10th and 11th streets. This modern infrastructure is expected to serve as a dual home for the Sixers and potentially a new WNBA franchise.
“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,” Mayor Parker affirmed, underlining the city's ambitious vision.
Historical Relocation and Future Aspirations
The Philadelphia 76ers have a storied history, having relocated from Syracuse, N.Y., where they were known as the Syracuse Nationals, to Philadelphia on May 22, 1963. The team's current lease at the Wells Fargo Center is set to expire in 2031, coinciding with the anticipated transition to the new 76 Place arena. This new agreement aims to ensure the Sixers remain in Philadelphia until at least 2061, providing a long-term home base for the team and, potentially, a new WNBA franchise.
“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,” a Sixers spokesperson stated, highlighting the organization’s commitment to this dual-team vision.
WNBA Expansion on the Horizon
The WNBA itself is in a phase of expansion, growing from 12 to at least 15 teams by 2026. New franchises, such as the Golden State Valkyries, are set to join the league next season, while Toronto and Portland will debut their teams in the subsequent year. This broader expansion reflects the league's growing popularity and the increasing demand for women's professional basketball across North America.
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has expressed confidence in the league's growth trajectory, stating that the league could expand to 16 teams by 2028. This optimistic outlook bolsters Philadelphia's bid, suggesting that the timing could be ideal for the city to join the ranks of WNBA host cities.
Despite past setbacks, Mayor Parker remains steadfast in her pursuit of bringing a WNBA team to 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,” Parker emphasized, underscoring her determination and resilience.
This renewed vigor and significant investment in new infrastructure not only pave the way for the Sixers' future but also set the stage for Philadelphia to potentially become a key player in the WNBA landscape. As the city rallies behind this vision, backed by corporate and governmental support, the dream of hosting a women's professional basketball team seems closer than ever to becoming a reality.