In a bold move to enhance Philadelphia's sports scene, Mayor Cherelle Parker has collaborated with the Philadelphia 76ers to work towards bringing a Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) team to the city. This ambitious initiative comes as part of a broader plan that involves the construction of a new arena for the Sixers, aptly named 76 Place.
A Collective Vision
The drive to introduce a WNBA team to Philadelphia is not a new endeavor. The first effort was made a few years ago, around the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the initial setbacks, the city 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,” Mayor Parker said.
The synergy between the Mayor and the Philadelphia 76ers underscores a shared commitment to not only sustain but also elevate Philadelphia's basketball culture. “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 stated.
The New Arena: 76 Place
Central to this vision is the ambitious project to build 76 Place, a state-of-the-art arena estimated to cost $1.3 billion. Parker recently presented an extensive 80-slide presentation detailing the proposed project, which is set to be located at Market and Filbert streets and 10th and 11th streets. The site selection and the scale of this project demonstrate a commitment to creating a landmark venue that will be a beacon for sports in Philadelphia.
The timing of the new arena is also strategic. The Sixers' current lease at the Wells Fargo Center is set to expire in 2031. Plans are in place for the team to transition to 76 Place by the end of this lease, with the new agreement keeping the Sixers in Philadelphia until at least 2061.
WNBA Expansion: A Growing League
The WNBA itself is in the midst of a significant expansion phase. The league is currently expanding from 12 to at least 15 teams by 2026. This expansion includes new franchises such as the Golden State Valkyries, set to join next season. Furthermore, Toronto and Portland are both slated to debut their WNBA teams in the following year. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has expressed confidence that the league can grow to 16 teams by 2028.
This period of growth within the WNBA aligns well with Philadelphia's aspirations. The market dynamics and the planned infrastructure improvements spearheaded by the 76ers and city officials position Philadelphia as a prime candidate for a new team. As Parker highlighted, “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.”
With the support of both the local government and the 76ers, and amidst a favorable expansion climate within the WNBA, Philadelphia's dream of hosting a WNBA team appears increasingly attainable. The city's dedication to revitalizing its sports facilities and fostering a robust sports culture collectively marks a new era for Philadelphia basketball.