Philadelphia's Bid for a WNBA Team Gains Momentum with Proposed New Arena
Mayor Cherelle Parker, in a collaborative effort with the Philadelphia 76ers, is making a bold push to bring a Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) team to the City of Brotherly Love. This marks the city's renewed effort after an initial attempt a few years ago during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic did not come to fruition.
Parker, showcasing her dedication, recently delivered an extensive 80-slide presentation on the proposed 76 Place arena, a state-of-the-art project estimated to cost a staggering $1.3 billion. The site for this ambitious arena is strategically chosen, set to be located at Market and Filbert streets and between 10th and 11th streets, promising to be a pivotal addition to the city's bustling sports district.
"We were able to secure support from the governor, from the city, its administration and legislative body," said Parker. "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."
Historical Context and Future Aspirations
The partnership between the city's administration and the 76ers reflects a deep-rooted history in Philadelphia's sports scene. The Sixers, originally known as the Syracuse Nationals, relocated from Syracuse, N.Y., to Philadelphia on May 22, 1963. Currently, they operate out of the Wells Fargo Center, but their lease is due to expire in 2031. With the planned move to 76 Place, the aim is to make the transition by the end of their lease, securing their presence in Philadelphia until at least 2061.
Parker’s presentation didn’t just underscore the economic and cultural benefits of the new arena; it also emphasized the potential for the 76 Place to serve as a home for both the 76ers and a future 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 asserted confidently.
The pursuit of a WNBA franchise aligns with the league’s current expansion plans. The WNBA, which aims to grow from 12 to at least 15 teams by 2026, has already announced new franchises, including the Golden State Valkyries set to join next season. Moreover, Toronto and Portland will debut their teams in the following year. Reflecting the league's trajectory, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has expressed confidence that the league can grow to 16 teams by 2028.
A United Front for Women's Basketball
The Sixers organization has openly supported Mayor Parker’s vision. A spokesperson for the team remarked, “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 united front between the city's leadership and the Sixers clearly demonstrates a strong commitment to not only enhance Philadelphia's sports landscape but also to foster greater inclusivity and support for women's sports. By situating the potential WNBA team within the new 76 Place, the city aims to create a premier venue that can inspire future generations of athletes and fans alike.
As the league continues its expansion and Philadelphia positions itself as a frontrunner for a new WNBA team, the collaborative efforts of Mayor Cherelle Parker and the 76ers signal a promising future for women's basketball in the city. Although challenges remain, their combined determination and strategic planning could very well bring the dream of a Philadelphia WNBA franchise to reality.