Philadelphia's Push for a WNBA Team Gains Momentum
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker, in collaboration with the city's prominent NBA team, the 76ers, is making significant strides to bring a Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) franchise to the city. This endeavor reflects a broader vision of enhancing Philadelphia's status as a major sports hub.
Efforts to introduce a WNBA team to Philadelphia date back to the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these initial attempts falling short, 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. I want us to keep working extremely hard, as hard as we can, united together," Parker asserted.
Recently, Parker presented an ambitious 80-slide proposal outlining plans for a new $1.3 billion arena for the Sixers, named 76 Place. This project, situated between Market and Filbert streets and 10th and 11th streets, is poised to become a cornerstone of the city's sports infrastructure. Parker firmly believes that this development could be pivotal in Philadelphia's pursuit of 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," Parker remarked.
The Sixers, a team with a storied history that includes relocating from Syracuse, N.Y., where they were known as the Syracuse Nationals, to Philadelphia on May 22, 1963, are fully backing this initiative. The shared vision between the city's leadership and the team aims to turn 76 Place into a dual home for both the 76ers and a future WNBA team. A Sixers spokesperson reinforced this commitment, 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."
This new arena arrangement is projected to ensure the Sixers remain in Philadelphia until at least 2061, a significant extension of their current lease at the Wells Fargo Center, which expires in 2031. The team aims to transition to 76 Place by the end of their current lease, marking a new chapter in their journey.
Adding to the strategic timing of Philadelphia's proposal is the WNBA's ongoing expansion, which aims to grow from 12 to at least 15 teams by 2026. The upcoming season will introduce new franchises like the Golden State Valkyries, with Toronto and Portland also set to debut their teams in subsequent years. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has voiced optimism about the league's potential growth, projecting up to 16 teams by 2028.
Philadelphia's bid for a WNBA team, bolstered by Parker's tenacity and the substantial backing of the 76ers, positions the city as a serious contender in the league's expansion plans. The proposed 76 Place arena not only promises to be a state-of-the-art facility but also symbolizes the city's commitment to advancing women's sports and solidifying its reputation in the professional sports arena.
As the WNBA continues its expansion, the combined efforts of Mayor Parker and the 76ers could soon see Philadelphia joining the ranks of cities with a WNBA presence, offering fans yet another reason to celebrate their city's rich sports culture.