Philadelphia's quest to bring a Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) team to the city has received a significant push forward, courtesy of a collaboration between Mayor Cherelle Parker and the Philadelphia 76ers. The plan, which has been in the works for a few years, is gathering momentum with the current expansion of the WNBA from 12 to at least 15 teams by 2026.
A Renewed Effort
The initial attempt to secure a WNBA franchise for Philadelphia took place during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Though it did not succeed, Mayor Parker remains undeterred. “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.
A Vision for the Future
Parker recently presented an 80-slide proposal for a new arena, dubbed 76 Place. The proposed arena is to be located at Market and Filbert streets and 10th and 11th streets, with an estimated cost of $1.3 billion. This development is anticipated to strengthen Philadelphia's case for 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 stated.
The Sixers' Commitment
The Sixers, originally the Syracuse Nationals before relocating to Philadelphia on May 22, 1963, have been entrenched in the city's sports culture for decades. Currently, they play at the Wells Fargo Center, where their lease is due to expire in 2031. The Sixers aim to transition to 76 Place by the end of the lease period, ensuring their presence in Philadelphia until at least 2061. A Sixers spokesperson echoed this commitment, saying, “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.”
WNBA Expansion
As part of its expansion, the WNBA is preparing to introduce new franchises. The Golden State Valkyries are set to join next season, while teams in Toronto and Portland will make their debut the following year. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has expressed her confidence in the league's growth trajectory, anticipating that it could have 16 teams by 2028.
The collaborative efforts between Mayor Parker and the 76ers underscore a strong, unified vision for bringing women's professional basketball to Philadelphia. The proposed 76 Place arena not only promises to serve as a state-of-the-art facility for the Sixers but also as a beacon for a potential WNBA team, reflecting the city's dedication to enhancing its sports landscape.
Philadelphia awaits with anticipation, as the synergy between local government and sports franchises could soon make it a hub for WNBA action, blending history, hope, and a promising future.