Mayor Cherelle Parker is set on a mission to add a Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) team to Philadelphia, partnering with the Philadelphia 76ers to turn this vision into reality. This ambitious effort marks a noteworthy chapter in the city's sporting history, reflecting the growing momentum for women's sports nationwide.
The journey to bring a WNBA team to Philadelphia began a few years ago, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although initial attempts were unsuccessful, Mayor Parker is 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 stated, underscoring her determination and optimism.
The New Arena: A Catalyst for Change
Central to this endeavor is the construction of a new arena for the Sixers, dubbed 76 Place. The proposed arena, estimated to cost $1.3 billion, will be located at Market and Filbert streets and 10th and 11th streets. This state-of-the-art facility is expected to elevate Philadelphia's sports infrastructure significantly, providing a modern venue that could house both the Sixers and a potential WNBA franchise.
Parker recently delivered an 80-slide presentation outlining the proposal, emphasizing the transformative impact the arena could have on the city's quest for a WNBA team. "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.
A Vision for the Future
The Philadelphia 76ers have a storied history, having relocated from Syracuse, N.Y., where they were known as the Syracuse Nationals, on May 22, 1963. Their current lease at the Wells Fargo Center is set to expire in 2031, aligning with their goal to transition to 76 Place by the end of the lease period. The new arena agreement is designed to keep the Sixers in Philadelphia until at least 2061, ensuring long-term stability for the franchise.
A Sixers spokesperson echoed the Mayor’s sentiments, expressing strong support for the initiative. "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," the spokesperson said.
WNBA Expansion: A Growing Opportunity
The WNBA is currently in an expansion phase, growing from 12 to at least 15 teams by 2026. New franchises, like the Golden State Valkyries, are set to join next season, followed by teams in Toronto and Portland. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has expressed confidence that the league can expand to 16 teams by 2028, which augurs well for Philadelphia's aspirations.
Combining the efforts of Mayor Parker, the Philadelphia 76ers, and the supportive legislative framework, Philadelphia's chances of securing a WNBA team appear more promising than ever. The city’s rich basketball heritage, combined with the proposed state-of-the-art facility, makes a compelling case for it to become a host city for a WNBA franchise.
In conclusion, with determined leadership and a clear vision, the dream of bringing a WNBA team to Philadelphia is not just a dream but a possible reality on the horizon. Fans of women's basketball can look forward to the exciting prospect of cheering on their very own team in the near future.