Mayor Cherelle Parker is on a mission to bring a Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) team to Philadelphia, and she's teaming up with the Philadelphia 76ers to make it happen.
The effort to secure a WNBA team for the city is not a new one. Initial attempts were made a few years ago, during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite those efforts falling short, Parker remains determined. "We were able to secure support from the governor, from the city, its administration, and legislative body," she said. "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."
A New Home for the Sixers
As part of this renewed campaign, Parker recently delivered an 80-slide presentation detailing a proposed new arena for the Sixers. Dubbed 76 Place, this ambitious project is estimated to cost $1.3 billion and promises to invigorate the area around Market, Filbert, 10th, and 11th streets. The Sixers plan to transition to 76 Place by the end of their current lease at the Wells Fargo Center, which expires in 2031.
"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 proclaimed, highlighting the interconnectedness of the new arena project and the WNBA bid.
Sixers' Commitment to the Initiative
The Sixers organization has echoed Parker's enthusiasm about the prospect of a WNBA team. "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," stated a Sixers spokesperson.
The potential new arena agreement includes a commitment to keep the Sixers in Philadelphia until at least 2061. This extended timeline provides a solid foundation for the city’s sporting future and enhances the case for securing a WNBA team.
WNBA Expansion on the Horizon
The timing of these efforts couldn't be better, as the WNBA is currently expanding from 12 to at least 15 teams by 2026. New franchises such as the Golden State Valkyries are set to join next season, while Toronto and Portland will debut their teams in the following year. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has expressed confidence that the league can grow to 16 teams by 2028.
Philadelphia’s rich sports culture and passionate fan base make it a prime candidate for WNBA expansion. The Sixers' history, which dates back to their relocation from Syracuse, N.Y., as the Syracuse Nationals to Philadelphia on May 22, 1963, adds a layer of historical significance to this modern initiative.
With both governmental and organizational support, as well as a city known for its vibrant sports community, the drive to bring a WNBA team to Philadelphia seems poised for success. As Mayor Parker and the Philadelphia 76ers push forward with their plans for 76 Place and their bid for a WNBA franchise, the city awaits what could be a significant addition to its illustrious sports heritage.