Philadelphia granted WNBA team to become 18th team in the league

The city of Philadelphia is next in line to join the WNBA. Beginning in the 2030 season, Philadelphia will have its own WNBA team in South Philly and will be owned by Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment--the same company that governs the Philadelphia 76ers.

Philadelphia will be getting its first new professional team since the Union in the MLS was founded in 2008 and began play in the 2010 season. The WNBA coming to the city is a big get as the league is growing quickly and will be looking to bring more excitement to the City of Brotherly Love.

“Philadelphia is a city with unmatched passion, rich basketball tradition, and an unwavering love for its teams,” said WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert via an official press release. “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. We’re grateful for Josh Harris, David Blitzer, David Adelman, Brian Roberts, and the entire ownership group for their leadership and investment in growing the game and elevating women’s sports in this incredible community.”

University of South Carolina coach, and Philadelphia native and basketball legend, Dawn Staley took to Twitter to give her reaction to the news.

PHILLY PHILLY yall ready for the @philawnba?!! The countdown clock has started!!!— dawnstaley (@dawnstaley) June 30, 2025

Now, preparations begin for 2030 as everybody is preparing to get on the same page as well as come up with a new for the new team in Philly.

This article originally appeared on Sixers Wire: Philadelphia granted WNBA team to become 18th team in the league