Mayor Cherelle Parker has joined forces with the Philadelphia 76ers in a renewed effort to bring a Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) team to the City of Brotherly Love. This long-awaited ambition marks a significant step for both the city and its dedicated sports fans.
The endeavor to introduce a WNBA franchise to Philadelphia isn't entirely new. The first attempt was made a few years back, around the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite initial setbacks, Parker’s unwavering dedication to this cause shines through. “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,” she emphasized, reflecting her tenacity and determination.
In a strategic move to bolster Philadelphia's chances, Parker recently delivered an 80-slide presentation detailing the proposal for a new arena for the Sixers, dubbed 76 Place. This ambitious project, estimated to cost around $1.3 billion, aims to revolutionize the city’s sporting landscape. The proposed location for 76 Place is nestled between Market and Filbert streets and 10th and 11th streets, an area primed for such a landmark facility.
The Sixers, having relocated from Syracuse, N.Y., back in 1963 when they were known as the Syracuse Nationals, have called Philadelphia home for nearly six decades. Currently, they are tenants at the Wells Fargo Center, with a lease that extends until 2031. However, the Sixers aim to transition to the new 76 Place arena by the end of their lease. This move comes with a long-term commitment to remain in Philadelphia until at least 2061, further solidifying their roots in the city.
Cherelle Parker is confident that the new Sixers arena will enhance Philadelphia's bid to secure 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, underlining the strategic importance of the new arena in achieving this goal.
A Sixers spokesperson echoed Parker's sentiments, expressing the organization's shared enthusiasm for bringing a WNBA franchise to Philadelphia. “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 spokesperson revealed.
The timing of this initiative aligns with the WNBA's expansion plans, which currently aim to grow the league from 12 to at least 15 teams by 2026. New franchises such as the Golden State Valkyries are set to join the competition next season, with Toronto and Portland debuting their own teams the following year. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has even expressed confidence that the league can expand to 16 teams by 2028, setting a promising precedent for Philadelphia's aspirations.
As Philadelphia pushes forward with its ambition to welcome a WNBA team, the collaborative efforts of Mayor Parker and the 76ers, backed by substantial local and governmental support, paint an optimistic picture. The proposed 76 Place arena stands as a symbol of this commitment, reflecting the city's unyielding pursuit of sporting excellence and a brighter future for women's basketball in Philadelphia.