With the 76ers still looking to get a new stadium deal done, New Jersey has thrown their hat in the ring to try and lure the iconic franchise across the Delaware River.
Are the Sixers actually likely to make that move? No. But it won’t be due to a lack of effort from the state of New Jersey. According to an article from the Associated Press, New Jersey is offering the 76ers up to $400 million in tax credits as a part of their pitch for a multi-billion dollar plan in the city of Camden.
The CEO of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, Tim Sullivan, has presented a proposal amidst ongoing negotiations between the team and Philadelphia regarding a potential $1.3 billion arena near Chinatown. The team has expressed their intention to relocate from Wells Fargo Arena in the stadium district by 2031 when their lease expires. But the city has yet to present them with plans for a new arena.
So … Could The 76ers Actually Move?
It’s still unlikely, but until the agreements for a new deal are official, anything is possible. In the era of owners wanting tax breaks to build new stadiums, you can never put it past an owner to explore all options – including relocation. The Sixers also do have a training and office facility in Camden, so it’s not like they’re new to the area.
76ers team spokesperson Molly Mita McEndy had the following statement:
“The reality is we are running out of time to reach an agreement that will allow the 76ers to open our new home in time for the 2031-32 NBA season As a result, we must take all potential options seriously, including this one.”
Statement via AP
A spokesperson for the city of Philadelphia declined to comment, but in that same post from the AP, they cited a quote from Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro saying, “I love the Sixers. They Belong in Philadelphia.”
Again, I HIGHLY doubt we see the Sixers relocate any time soon. They still have seven years until their lease expires, which gives them plenty of time to come up with a solution. Also, let’s be real, it’s Philly. These fans would never let this happen. Not to mention, letting it be known that relocation is an option is the oldest trick in the owner’s manual for a team looking for a new shiny arena.
So sure, I guess we’ll monitor this one. But don’t expect a departure from the City of Brotherly Love any time soon for the 76ers. That is where they belong.