Philadelphia is on the cusp of bolstering its sports portfolio with the addition of a Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) team, thanks to the dedicated efforts of Mayor Cherelle Parker and a strategic partnership with the Philadelphia 76ers. This collaboration is poised to bring the electrifying world of professional women's basketball to the City of Brotherly Love.
The Road to a WNBA Team
The journey to secure a WNBA franchise for Philadelphia has been marked by perseverance and ambition. The first attempt was made a few years ago at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, reflecting the city's long-standing commitment to expanding its sports offerings. Mayor Parker, known for her tenacity, spearheaded a renewed effort, stating, “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.”
76 Place: The Future Home
Central to this effort is the proposed new arena for the Sixers, dubbed 76 Place. Mayor Parker recently unveiled an extensive 80-slide presentation detailing the plans for the arena, a project projected to cost $1.3 billion. Strategically located at Market and Filbert streets between 10th and 11th streets, 76 Place is envisioned as a state-of-the-art facility that will elevate Philadelphia’s status as a premier sports city.
The 76ers’ lease at their current home, the Wells Fargo Center, is set to expire in 2031. They aim to transition to the new 76 Place arena by the end of the lease, ensuring continuity for fans and players alike. Moreover, the new arena isn’t just a temporary fixture; the agreement aims to keep the Sixers in Philadelphia until at least 2061. A Sixers spokesperson highlighted the dual purpose of this facility, “Our goal is for our new arena to serve as home to both the 76ers and a WNBA franchise.”
Expanding the WNBA
This push for a WNBA team comes at a time when the league is actively expanding. The WNBA is currently growing from 12 teams to at least 15 by 2026. New franchises such as the Golden State Valkyries are set to join next season, and Toronto and Portland will follow suit the year after. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has expressed confidence in the league's growth, envisioning up to 16 teams by 2028.
Philadelphia's Rising Position
Adding a WNBA team to Philadelphia’s sports landscape is seen as an inevitable progression, especially with the arrival of 76 Place. As Mayor Parker aptly noted, “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.”
For Philadelphia, the intertwined efforts of the city’s administration and the Sixers’ backing reflect a unified push towards this goal. The shared vision and targeted strategy underscore the importance of such a development for the sports community and fans alike.
In conclusion, the drive to bring a WNBA team to Philadelphia illustrates a significant chapter in the city's sports history. With Mayor Parker leading the charge and substantial institutional support in place, Philadelphia's dream of hosting a WNBA team is closer than ever to becoming a reality. The combination of strategic planning, financial commitment, and community enthusiasm sets the stage for a thrilling new era in Philadelphia sports.