The so far unnamed team, pending approval, will debut in Philadelphia in 2030.
A new WNBA team is set to debut in 2030 right here in Pennsylvania. The team does not have a name yet, but it will be based in South Philadelphia and will be owned and operated by Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE).
The new professional women’s basketball team was announced by the league on Monday and is pending approval from the WNBA and the NBA Board of Governors.
Josh Harris, managing partner of the Philadelphia 76ers and co-founder of HBSE, said, “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. 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.”
Harris continued, “This city’s spirit, grit, and love of basketball are second to none. We’re committed to building an organization that reflects that energy and is rooted in community and driven to consistently compete for championships.”
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert said, “Philadelphia is a city with unmatched passion, rich basketball tradition, and an unwavering love for its teams. 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 — and we’re proud to bring the W to a city that’s ready to embrace it.”
Philadelphia last acquired a professional sports team in 2008. It is one of three cities the WNBA is expanding to, including Cleveland and Detroit.
The WNBA currently has 13 teams. Franchises will be added in Toronto and Portland in 2026. Cleveland’s team will debut in 2028, and Detroit’s in 2029.
The addition of a women’s professional basketball team in Philadelphia in 2030 will bring the WNBA’s total teams to 18.
HBSE and Comcast Spectacor are planning to build a new sports arena for the Philadelphia 76ers and the Philadelphia Flyers. The arena will replace the Wells Fargo Center in South Philly.
“This is a great day for Philadelphia and we’re proud to be a small part of bringing the WNBA to our hometown. Congratulations to the 76ers, the WNBA, and the City who all made this landmark moment possible,” said Brian L. Roberts, Chairman and CEO of the Comcast Corporation.
