The city of Philadelphia is taking significant strides toward welcoming a Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) team, thanks to a concerted effort led by Mayor Cherelle Parker in collaboration with the Philadelphia 76ers. This initiative marks the latest attempt to bring the excitement of professional women's basketball to the city, with previous efforts dating back to the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Vision for 76 Place
Mayor Parker recently unveiled an ambitious 80-slide presentation detailing plans for a new arena for the Sixers, aptly named 76 Place. This proposed arena, estimated to cost $1.3 billion, is set to be strategically located between Market and Filbert streets and 10th and 11th streets. The current home of the Sixers, the Wells Fargo Center, has a lease expiring in 2031, positioning the franchise to transition to the new venue by the end of their current agreement.
Highlighting the broader vision for 76 Place, Parker stated, “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.” This sentiment underscores the dual purpose of the new arena—to serve not only as the home for the Sixers but also to potentially host a new WNBA franchise.
Historical Context and Future Ambitions
The Sixers have a rich history in Philadelphia, having relocated from Syracuse, N.Y., where they were known as the Syracuse Nationals, to the City of Brotherly Love on May 22, 1963. This historical connection and the commitment to keeping the Sixers in Philadelphia until at least 2061 through the new arena agreement reflect a long-term investment in the city's sports culture.
The urgency in Parker's pursuit of a WNBA team is matched by developments at the league level. The WNBA is currently expanding from 12 to at least 15 teams by 2026. Among the new entrants is the Golden State Valkyries, set to join in the next season. Additionally, Toronto and Portland will debut their WNBA franchises the year after. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has expressed optimism that the league can expand to 16 teams by 2028, creating a conducive environment for Philadelphia's bid.
A Unified Effort
Bringing a WNBA team to Philadelphia is more than just a vision—it’s a collective goal that has garnered extensive support from various stakeholders. Reflecting on past efforts, Parker noted, “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.”
This resilient approach is echoed by the Sixers organization. A spokesperson for the team affirmed their shared ambition, stating, “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 Promising Path Ahead
Philadelphia's concerted push for a WNBA team, anchored by the development of 76 Place, represents a significant opportunity to enhance the city's sports landscape. The collaborative efforts between Mayor Parker, the Sixers, and other key stakeholders demonstrate a unified vision aimed at enriching the city's professional sports offerings and fostering a vibrant community around women's basketball.
With the WNBA's planned expansion and the strategic positioning of 76 Place, the momentum building in Philadelphia could very well see the city soon host another major basketball team, creating new legacies and inspiring future generations.