Philadelphia is making bold moves to secure a place on the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) map. Mayor Cherelle Parker has collaborated with the Philadelphia 76ers in a bid to bring a WNBA team to the City of Brotherly Love. The effort is part of a broader vision to bolster the city's status as a hub for professional sports.
The endeavor to introduce a WNBA franchise to Philadelphia began a few years ago, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the initial setback, Parker remains resolute. “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 asserted.
New Arena on the Horizon
In a recent presentation, Mayor Parker unveiled an ambitious 80-slide proposal for a new 76ers arena, aptly named 76 Place. This futuristic arena, estimated to cost $1.3 billion, is set to be located in the heart of Philadelphia, between Market and Filbert streets, stretching from 10th to 11th streets. The project aims to not only serve as a home for the 76ers but potentially house 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 confidently.
The Sixers have a rich history in Philadelphia, having relocated from Syracuse, N.Y., where they were known as the Syracuse Nationals, on May 22, 1963. Currently, the team plays at Wells Fargo Center, with their lease set to expire in 2031. The goal is to transition to 76 Place by the end of the lease. A new agreement is in place to keep the Sixers in Philadelphia until at least 2061.
Future of the WNBA
The WNBA is poised for significant growth, expanding from its current 12 teams to at least 15 by 2026. New franchises like the Golden State Valkyries are slated to join next season, with Toronto and Portland debuting their teams the following year. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has expressed optimism about the league's expansion, aiming for 16 teams by 2028.
The 76ers organization is fully behind Mayor Parker's vision. “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 Sixers spokesperson commented.
As Parker and the 76ers continue their efforts, the dream of bringing a WNBA team to Philadelphia seems closer to reality. The proposed 76 Place arena stands as a testament to the city's commitment to advancing its sports infrastructure and fostering a vibrant sports community. With strong support from both local government and the Sixers, Philadelphia's pursuit of a WNBA franchise appears to be on a promising path forward.