Philadelphia Mayor and 76ers Collaborating to Bring WNBA Franchise to City
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker and the 76ers are teaming up in an effort to bring a WNBA franchise to the city. This initiative comes as the league is set to expand to 15 teams by 2026, with the potential for further growth in the future. Mayor Parker revealed that previous attempts to establish a WNBA team in Philadelphia had been made a few years ago, but now she believes the timing is ideal for the city to embrace women’s professional basketball.
Building Momentum for a WNBA Team in Philadelphia
Mayor Parker has announced that an agreement has been reached to ensure that the 76ers will remain in Philadelphia until at least 2061. This long-term commitment has provided a solid foundation for the city to pursue the addition of a WNBA team. During a public meeting, Mayor Parker presented plans for a new arena called 76 Place, which is estimated to cost $1.3 billion and would be located at Market and Filbert streets between 10th and 11th streets. The proposed legislation for the arena is expected to be introduced to City Council on Oct. 24.
The Sixers’ current lease at the Wells Fargo Center with Comcast Spectacor is set to expire in 2031, coinciding with the planned completion of the new arena. This strategic timeline positions Philadelphia favorably to welcome a WNBA team as the league expands its reach. Mayor Parker emphasized the importance of seizing this opportunity to further elevate the city’s sports landscape and provide a platform for women athletes to showcase their talents.
Expanding the WNBA and Philadelphia’s Role in the Growth
The WNBA is undergoing significant growth, with plans to increase the number of teams from 12 to at least 15 by 2026. The addition of the Golden State Valkyries in the upcoming season, followed by teams from Toronto and Portland in subsequent years, reflects the league’s commitment to expansion. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has expressed confidence in the league’s potential to reach 16 teams by 2028, highlighting the increasing demand for women’s professional basketball.
Mayor Parker recalled previous efforts to secure a WNBA team for Philadelphia during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite initial setbacks, she remains determined to pursue this goal and has garnered support from various stakeholders, including the governor, city administration, and legislative bodies. With the development of the new Sixers arena, Mayor Parker is optimistic about Philadelphia’s prospects of attracting a WNBA franchise and establishing the city as a hub for women’s sports.
The Sixers, originally known as the Syracuse Nationals, relocated to Philadelphia in 1963 and have since become an integral part of the city’s sports culture. The team’s spokesperson affirmed their commitment to Mayor Parker’s vision of bringing a WNBA franchise to Philadelphia, with plans to make the new arena a shared home for both the 76ers and the future women’s team. This collaborative effort underscores the city’s dedication to supporting gender equality in sports and providing opportunities for women athletes to excel on a professional stage.
In conclusion, Mayor Cherelle Parker and the 76ers are actively working towards bringing a WNBA franchise to Philadelphia as the league expands and evolves. Their joint efforts reflect a commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity in sports, while also enhancing the city’s sporting landscape. With strategic planning and community support, Philadelphia aims to position itself as a leading destination for women’s professional basketball, contributing to the growth and success of the WNBA.
