Mayor Parker Teams Up with Sixers for WNBA Expansion in Philadelphia
In an exciting development for Philadelphia sports fans, Mayor Cherelle Parker has joined forces with the Philadelphia 76ers in an effort to bring a Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) team to the city. This initiative marks the latest chapter in a saga that began a few years ago amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Speaking passionately about the city's ambition, Mayor Parker emphasized the importance of unity and relentless effort. “We were able to secure support from the governor, from the city, its administration and legislative body,” Parker noted. “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.”
The renewed push for a WNBA team comes at a time of dynamic change for the Sixers, who are planning a transition to a new home. Parker recently delivered an 80-slide presentation on a proposed new arena for the Sixers, named 76 Place. This ambitious project, estimated to cost $1.3 billion, is set to be located at Market and Filbert streets and 10th and 11th streets. The Sixers' relocation from their current venue is anticipated to coincide with the expiration of their lease at the Wells Fargo Center in 2031.
The Sixers have a storied history in Philadelphia, having relocated from Syracuse, N.Y., where they were known as the Syracuse Nationals, on May 22, 1963. Their continued commitment to the city is evident in the new arena agreement, which aims to keep the Sixers in Philadelphia until at least 2061. “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 stated with optimism.
The Sixers organization shares in Parker's vision. A spokesperson for the team expressed their commitment to bringing a WNBA franchise to Philadelphia, noting, “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 momentum aligns with broader trends within the WNBA, which is in the process of expanding from 12 to at least 15 teams by 2026. New franchises such as the Golden State Valkyries are set to join next season, followed by teams in Toronto and Portland the following year. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has expressed confidence that the league can grow to 16 teams by 2028.
The prospects for Philadelphia’s sports landscape are undeniably bright. The proposed 76 Place arena represents a significant investment in the city's future as a major hub for basketball. The ambition to secure a WNBA team further underscores the city's dedication to fostering both male and female professional sports.
As Philadelphia continues to evolve and grow, the combined efforts of Mayor Parker and the 76ers could very well bring a WNBA franchise to the City of Brotherly Love, adding another exciting chapter to its rich sports heritage.