The Philadelphia 76ers have announced an ambitious plan to build a new arena in Center City, aiming for completion by the 2031-32 NBA season. This bold move has received official backing from Mayor Cherelle Parker, but the final decision rests with the city council and faces significant opposition from the community.
The project has sparked widespread concern about the potential displacement of local residents, particularly those in Chinatown. This anxiety isn't unfounded, as such large-scale developments often lead to neighborhood upheavals. Jason Kelce, a prominent figure in sports known for his tenure with the NFL's Philadelphia Eagles, has publicly criticized the relocation efforts. "I would prefer it stays in South Philly, unquestionably," Kelce stated, reflecting a sentiment shared by many fans and residents.
Kelce's opposition is deeply personal. Growing up in Cleveland, Ohio, he witnessed the heart-wrenching relocation of the NFL's Browns to Baltimore. This experience seems to fuel his passionate stance against the 76ers' proposed move, which he views as a strong-arm tactic against the city’s desires. "All of these people have devoted all of their time, all of their efforts, all of their money, and a lifetime of fandom toward this team, and now you're going to strong-arm people against what the city wants," Kelce articulated. "I really have a hard time being OK with that. I'm not OK with it. I think it's wrong."
Adding to the complexity of the situation is the ownership group behind the 76ers, Harris Blitzer Sports and Entertainment (HBSE). This group not only owns the 76ers but also has stakes in the NFL's Washington Commanders and NHL's New Jersey Devils. The diverse and geographically dispersed interests of HBSE have led some, including Kelce, to question the ownership’s commitment to Philadelphia. "The ownership group isn't Philadelphian! It’s got a New Jersey Devils team, a Philadelphia team, and now a Washington team!" Kelce exclaimed, expressing his frustration. "Now they're forcing the city to do what this guy wants, and it sucks."
Such sentiments are not isolated. A recent poll of registered voters in Philadelphia revealed that a mere 18% are in favor of the new Center City arena. Groups like the Save Chinatown Coalition and No Arena Washington Square West have been vocal in their criticisms, condemning the plan and advocating for the preservation of neighborhood integrity.
Amid the tension, HBSE acknowledged that an alternative proposal from Camden, New Jersey, exists as a potential backup plan should the Philadelphia deal fall through. The current lease for the 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center in South Philadelphia is set to expire in 2031, adding a layer of urgency to secure a new home for the team.
The push for a new arena in Center City is not without its proponents who argue that the long-term benefits could outweigh the immediate disruptions. Kelce himself touched on this paradox, acknowledging that, "When it does get built in Center City and all of these people are displaced, at the end of the day people are probably going to love it. In 10 years, all of this is gonna be different, and we're probably going to be really happy that there's this beautiful complex that was developed down there in a thriving part of the city."
Yet, for Kelce and many others, the current reality overshadows potential future benefits. "Right now, I really hate it," Kelce bluntly admitted, capturing the emotional conflict that many Philadelphians face as they grapple with the implications of the proposed arena.
As the debate continues, the city's decision-makers will need to navigate a complex landscape of economic interests, community impact, and the passionate voices of residents and fans. Whether the 76ers' new home will rise in Center City or across the river in Camden remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: this is a pivotal moment in the history of Philadelphia sports.