Philadelphia Awarded WNBA Expansion Team for 2030 Season

New franchise will be owned by Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, the owners of the 76ers.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 7:20pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented scene of a women's basketball game, with sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the dynamic energy and movement of the sport.The arrival of a WNBA team in Philadelphia signals a new era of inclusivity and representation in the city's sports landscape.Philadelphia Today

The WNBA and NBA Board of Governors have approved a new expansion team in Philadelphia, set to begin play in the 2030 season. The team will be owned and operated by Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, the same group that owns the 76ers. While the team's identity is still to be determined, the announcement marks a significant milestone for women's basketball in the city and the continued growth of the WNBA.

Why it matters

The arrival of a WNBA team in Philadelphia represents a major step forward for women's sports, providing young girls with new role models and challenging traditional gender stereotypes in the male-dominated sports landscape. It also signals the WNBA's continued success and the increasing popularity of women's basketball.

The details

The WNBA expansion team will begin play in the 2030 season, giving the franchise and the city ample time to prepare for its debut. The team will be owned and operated by Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, the same group that owns the NBA's Philadelphia 76ers. While the team's name and identity have yet to be revealed, the announcement has generated excitement and anticipation among the city's sports fans.

  • The WNBA and NBA Board of Governors approved the expansion team in June 2026.
  • The new Philadelphia WNBA team will begin play in the 2030 season.

The players

Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment

The ownership group behind the Philadelphia 76ers, who will also own and operate the new WNBA expansion team.

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What’s next

The team's name and identity are yet to be revealed, and the city of Philadelphia has until 2030 to prepare for the team's debut.

The takeaway

The approval of a WNBA expansion team in Philadelphia is a significant milestone for women's sports, providing new opportunities for young athletes and challenging traditional gender norms in the sports industry. The extended lead time before the team's debut allows for thorough planning and community engagement, setting the stage for a successful launch and a bright future for the franchise.