Philadelphia remains the largest city in the United States without a WNBA franchise, and many locals want that distinction to be no more, writes Harrison Cann for City & State Pennsylvania.

As the fourth-largest media market for professional sports teams, Philly has a lot going for itself in hopes of bringing a new professional basketball team.

“It’s such an oversight because we’re rabid. We love [basketball] here,” said Esther Rosen, a Philly resident and account owner of @WNBAPhilly on Twitter/X.

She believes the WNBA should prioritize adding a Philadelphia team to its league.

Philadelphia was on the shortlist of potential WNBA expansion team cities in 2025, but a franchise was instead awarded to San Francisco. The league is expected to add a second team, but has yet to finalize where a second potential expansion team will be located.

“We’re looking for the right ownership groups with the right commitment, the right arena situation, the right city to support a WNBA franchise,” WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert said in 2022. “Philly is definitely on a list.”

With the NBA and WNBA connection, many hope the 76 Place proposal can be key in bringing a WNBA team to Philadelphia.

Read more about the expansion of women’s sports and the WNBA and how Philadelphia can be a piece in the puzzle in City & State Pennsylvania. 

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