In an exciting development for women’s sports in Philadelphia, the city is set to welcome its first WNBA franchise in 2030. This milestone comes nearly 50 years after Yolanda Laney took Cheyney State to the women’s national championship game, and a decade after her daughter, Betnijah Laney-Hamilton, made her WNBA debut.
Yolanda Laney, honored with a city street in her name last year, has been a pivotal figure in nurturing local girls’ basketball talent. Through her coaching in the Developmental Basketball League and various AAU programs, she has helped shape the skills and aspirations of young players, including the acclaimed Dawn Staley and her own daughter.
Despite the excitement surrounding the new team, Laney expressed concerns about the current state of girls’ basketball in Philadelphia, noting a decline in competition levels over the years. She emphasized the need for the franchise to invest in local girls’ programs to stimulate interest and enhance skill development among aspiring athletes. Laney envisions the team hosting clinics and events aimed at engaging young female players prior to their inaugural game.
The initiative could significantly benefit from studying the success of the New York Liberty, whose proactive efforts to involve the local community have resulted in a marked increase in attendance and fan engagement. The new franchise can leverage these insights to build a dedicated fan base from the outset.
Eric Worley, a co-founder of Philadelphia Youth Basketball, echoed Laney’s sentiments, highlighting a noticeable gap in opportunities for girls in the sport, which prompted him to create competitive teams for his daughters. He believes the presence of a WNBA team will not only inspire local talent but also create opportunities for younger girls to develop their skills through newly established leagues, such as Jr. WNBA programs, which are currently absent in the Philadelphia area.
Moreover, organizations like Shoot Basketballs, Not People, led by Garry Mills, are also advocating for more engagement and opportunities for girls. Mills has noticed that many participants in their programs have yet to attend a WNBA game, emphasizing the transformative potential of having a local team to ignite interest among young fans.
As the countdown to 2030 begins, community leaders like Laney, Worley, and Mills are already calling for initiatives to empower young female athletes. This proactive approach aims to ensure that when the WNBA arrives in Philadelphia, there is a strong foundation of talent and enthusiasm to support it. With collaboration and careful planning, this franchise can be a beacon for aspiring basketball players in the city.