Philadelphia's Push for a WNBA Team Gains Momentum
Mayor Cherelle Parker and 76ers Join Forces
In an ambitious move set to invigorate Philadelphia’s sports scene, Mayor Cherelle Parker has partnered with the Philadelphia 76ers to bring a Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) team to the city. This strategic collaboration follows an earlier attempt to secure a WNBA franchise, which began around the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic but ultimately fell short.
Despite the initial setback, 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,” she said. “I want us to keep working extremely hard, as hard as we can, united together.”
Vision for a New Arena
Parker recently showcased the future of Philadelphia sports with an 80-slide presentation on the proposed new arena for the Sixers, named 76 Place. This ambitious project, estimated to cost $1.3 billion, is more than just a revamp of the city's sporting facilities; it represents a pivotal step towards welcoming a WNBA team.
76 Place is poised to be a state-of-the-art venue located at Market and Filbert streets and 10th and 11th streets. The Sixers, who relocated from Syracuse, N.Y. (where they were known as the Syracuse Nationals) to Philadelphia on May 22, 1963, plan to transition to 76 Place by the end of their lease at the Wells Fargo Center, which expires in 2031. This new agreement aims to keep the Sixers in Philadelphia until at least 2061.
Parker believes that the establishment of the new arena will significantly bolster efforts to secure a 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,” she asserted.
Sixers' Commitment to the Cause
The enthusiasm isn't one-sided. The Sixers organization has expressed a shared desire to bring 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,” stated a Sixers spokesperson.
WNBA’s Expansion Plans
The timing of these efforts couldn't be better, as the WNBA is in the process of expanding. The league is increasing from its current 12 teams to at least 15 by 2026. New franchises like the Golden State Valkyries are set to join next season, while Toronto and Portland will welcome their WNBA teams in the following year. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has expressed confidence that the league can grow to 16 teams by 2028.
With these expansions on the horizon, Philadelphia's bid for a WNBA team seems increasingly viable. The new arena could serve as the catalyst for successfully securing a franchise, fulfilling a long-standing aspiration for the city and its basketball enthusiasts.
The Road Ahead
Mayor Parker’s tenacity and vision, coupled with the Sixers' investment in the proposed arena, present a compelling case for the WNBA to consider Philadelphia as a prime location for a future team. As Parker emphasizes the need for unity and relentless effort, the city's hopes for a WNBA team appear to be on a promising trajectory.
Philadelphia’s sports fans, known for their passionate support, eagerly await the potential addition of a WNBA team to their city’s storied athletic traditions. The combination of political support, strategic planning, and community enthusiasm could very well make this dream a reality.