My Top 5 Names For Philly's WNBA Franchise
2030 is still a long way off, so we can try on a few names
Finally, the WNBA stops being ignorant of one of the most sports-loving cities in the world and grants them a team.
Josh Harris, owner of the Philadelphia 76ers, and his company Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE), along with Comcast, will be the owner-operators of the team. They are slated to play at the new South Philadelphia Arena, the eventual replacement of the Xfinity Mobile Arena.
We haven’t gotten any other details yet, and don’t expect any in the coming weeks and months, but it is still very fun to speculate about what the team might be called, because there are really fun options out there.
Here are some of my favorites.
The Totally Obvious - The Philadelphia Belles
Clearly, this would work and is probably the first thing that everyone thought of, and that’s ok! They’d be the Liberty Bells, but the New York Liberty already claimed that title, which is ironic because the Statue of Liberty still sits on the New Jersey side of the water.
This is the safe choice. It pays homage to the city’s heritage and has a feminine feel to it.
A Nod To A Famous Philadelphia Lady - The Philadelphia Grace
The famous lady is Princess Grace of Monaco. She was previously known as Grace Kelly, star of stage and screen, and the daughter of prominent Philadelphia’s John B. Kelly Sr. and his wife Margret (nee Majer). She’s known worldwide for her grace and charm, and is still the truest version of an American princess.
The team logo could be some kind of crown or tiara, modeled after the one that Princess Grace wore herself. The mock-up here isn’t, it is just a generic crown that’s the best free ChatGPT can do. Also real easy sponsorship with Crown Royal.
Back To History - Philadelphia Independence
Look, like it or not, this team is going to be associated with the Sixers, and we sure aren’t going to call them the Sixerettes.
This is my favorite jersey/color scheme so far, despite the spelling era and the generally uninspired name choice. It stays true to the city, is recognizable, and doesn’t limit you mascot-wise.
The Flag and Hospitals - Philadelphia Virtue
On the PA state flag is the motto “Virtue, Liberty, and Independence”. Virtue is a trait of excellence, and it shows high moral character. That’s what you’d want in a WNBA team.
Plus it is an easy sponsorship opportunity with Virtua hospitals, a place we’ve all been for various reasons. I’ve paired it here with the PA state flower, the mountain laurel, for an added bonus.
The Taken Name - Philadelphia Freedom
World Team Tennis is the only thing that stands between Philadelphia’s WNBA team and its perfect name. It makes far too much sense, Elton John is awesome, and you can hear the song rocking through the stadium after a win.
Now, is this a touch too patriotic for the WNBA? Yeah, probably, but it’s a ChatGPT starter. Either way, Josh Harris should cut a check to the WTT and buy the Freedom name.
If you’ve got a suggestion, we’re happy to hear it!