Philadelphia’s Ambitious Drive for a WNBA Team Gains Momentum
Philadelphia is ramping up its efforts to join the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) thanks to a dynamic partnership between Mayor Cherelle Parker and the Philadelphia 76ers. As the city sets its sights on hosting a professional women's basketball franchise, the collaboration aims to bring yet another sports powerhouse into the city’s vibrant athletic community.
The ambition to secure a WNBA team for Philadelphia isn't new. The first attempt occurred a few years ago during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the initial effort fell short, Mayor 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,” she stated, encapsulating her relentless spirit and vision for the city's future.
The revitalized push coincides with a significant development project in Philadelphia: a proposed new arena for the 76ers, dubbed 76 Place. Parker recently presented an extensive 80-slide proposal for this state-of-the-art facility, which is projected to cost $1.3 billion and will be located between Market and Filbert streets and 10th and 11th streets.
The Sixers, who relocated from Syracuse, New York, in 1963, currently play at the Wells Fargo Center. However, their lease there expires in 2031, aligning perfectly with the projected transition to 76 Place. By the time the lease concludes, the new arena aims to serve as the home base for both the Sixers and a prospective WNBA team. Highlighting the long-term nature of this agreement, the Sixers plan to stay in Philadelphia until at least 2061.
The vision for a joint basketball venue underscores the broader objectives of the franchise and city administration. “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 emphasized.
The Sixers organization has echoed this enthusiasm. A team spokesperson noted, “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 renewed effort is timely, considering the WNBA’s current expansion trajectory. The league plans to grow from 12 to at least 15 teams by 2026. Franchises such as the Golden State Valkyries are set to debut next season, while teams in Toronto and Portland will follow suit in the subsequent year. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has impressively projected the league's growth, expressing confidence that it can support up to 16 teams by 2028.
For Philadelphia, the incorporation of a WNBA team would not only enhance the city’s sports culture but also present significant economic and societal benefits. The new 76 Place arena represents more than just a modern sports facility; it is a symbol of Philadelphia’s commitment to athletic excellence and community engagement.
As the gears of this ambitious initiative turn, Philadelphia stands at the cusp of becoming a dual-basketball city, hosting top-tier men's and women's professional teams. With steadfast support from city officials, unwavering dedication from influential stakeholders, and a clear vision for the future, the City of Brotherly Love looks set to be a significant player in the WNBA landscape.