Franchise-altering rumor could be the beginning of the end for the 76ers

The Philadelphia 76ers could potentially have a path of goldenrods awaiting them in the upcoming season. Expectations around the team have never been this high, and given their moves this offseason, it’s only reasonable to count them in as a contender in 2024-25 even with the lack of a sample size and steam (save for the late-summer-vain ones).

But before we get to that juncture, it seems like the franchise will have to look much farther than initially expected. There has been a lot of noise lately about the team’s potentially massive switch-up in the foreseeable future, one that, at worst, could spell the beginning of the end for the 76ers as we all know them.

Rumored potential relocation could spell the end for the 76ers

The franchise’s lease at Wells Fargo Arena ends seven years from now in 2031, and most signs as of the moment point to a permanent halt after it lapses. The arena has been housing the 76ers since 1996, but talks of an exodus have garnered a lot of steam in recent days.

In fact, team spokesperson Molly Mita McEndy went on record to say that the 76ers will explore all available options, which includes (disenchanted drum roll please) a possible relocation from Philly to New Jersey.

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 [moving to New Jersey].

State officials in New Jersey have taken the first step early this week, reaching out to 76ers leaders for a tempting offer centered on a gargantuan tax credit and a brand-new arena to be established on the state, which previously had an NBA franchise with the Brooklyn Nets.

It remains to be seen whether the 76ers would be able to keep using Philadelphia on its face if it ever relocates, but nonetheless, it could have massive repercussions on the franchise, especially from the lens of a hometown kid and a homegrown fan in such a spirited and passionate sports mecca.