Philadelphia Awarded A WNBA Team, Debut Scheduled For 2030
Philadelphia is a basketball city. A lot of great basketball talent, both in the men’s game in the women’s game, got their start playing in Philly. So it was a…
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – JULY 10: The WNBA logo on the ball is seen as it is tipped during the game between the Seattle Storm and the Las Vegas Aces at Climate Pledge Arena on July 10, 2024 in Seattle, Washington.
(Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)Philadelphia is a basketball city. A lot of great basketball talent, both in the men's game in the women's game, got their start playing in Philly. So it was a shame that the city itself had no WNBA team. That is finally about to change. The WNBA announced today that Philadelphia will be awarded a team. Their debut is scheduled for 2030, when the Sixers' new arena will open.
Bringing The WNBA To Philly
“Philadelphia is a city with unmatched passion, rich basketball tradition, and an unwavering love for its teams," said WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. "It’s only fitting that this iconic sports town is finally home to a WNBA franchise. From neighborhood courts to historic college arenas, basketball runs deep in Philly. We’re proud to bring the W to a city that’s ready to embrace it."
The team will be owned and operated by Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE) with Comcast holding a minority stake.
“Philadelphia is one of the most storied basketball cities in the world, and our region is home to some of the greatest women’s players and coaches to ever grace the hardwood,” said Josh Harris.
“It’s only right that this city finally gets the WNBA franchise it deserves, and we’re humbled to help usher in a new era of Philadelphia basketball. Thanks to my partners David Blitzer, David Adelman, Brian Roberts, and the team at Comcast, and Governor Shapiro and Mayor Cherelle Parker for their collective leadership. We’re committed to building a world-class organization, fostering the continued growth of women’s professional sports in this great city, and bringing one of the fastest rising leagues in the world to Philadelphia in 2030.”
Philly Finally Gets A Team
Josh Harris has been trying to get a WNBA team to Philly for a while. Hosting a WNBA team was part of the original plans when they tried to get their Center City arena built. It remained part of the plan when they announced they would stay in the Sports Complex. Now those hopes will become reality.
