Jason Kelce weighs in on the possibility of building a new stadium for the 76ers and explains why he resents the process: “I really hate it”
Jason Kelce has very strong feelings about the Philadelphia 76ers’ plans to build a new stadium downtown. The Eagles legend has been vocal about his opposition to the plans, Officially endorsed by Mayor Cherelle Parker on Wednesdayfor the 76ers to move from their current location in South Philadelphia. The proposed stadium, which has faced opposition in Philadelphia, would aim to open in time for the 2031-32 season. NBA season and still needs to be approved by the city council.
Kelce joined WIP for the “WIP Morning Show” On Thursday, Kelce spoke about plans to relocate the 76ers. Kelce didn’t mince words when asked about his preference on where the stadium should be, citing the displacement of Chinatown residents as one of the main reasons for his opposition.
“I would definitely prefer it to stay in South Philly,” Kelce said. “What I can say is that when it’s built downtown and all these people are displaced, at the end of the day, people will probably love it. In 10 years, this will all be different and we’ll probably be very happy that there’s this beautiful complex that was built there in a thriving part of the city. Right now, I really hate it.”
Growing up in Cleveland, Ohio, when the of the NFL The Browns were moved to Baltimore by then-owner Art Modell, and Kelce said he was “scarred” by that experience. The recently retired Eagles center said it’s unfair for the 76ers’ ownership group to do whatever it wants without considering the people of Philadelphia.
“All these people have dedicated all their time, all their effort, all their money and a lifetime of fandom to this team, and now they’re going to pressure people into not doing what the city wants,” Kelce said. “I really have a hard time accepting that. I don’t feel good about that. I think it’s wrong.”
As Kelce noted, the 76ers’ ownership group, the Harris Blitzer Sports and Entertainment group led by Josh Harris, is not locally based and owns several major sports teams throughout the Mid-Atlantic, including the NFL’s Washington Commanders and the NHL New Jersey Devils.
“The ownership group is not from Philadelphia!” Kelce said. “They have a New Jersey Devils team, a Philadelphia team and now a Washington team! Now they’re forcing the city to do what this guy wants, and that’s bullshit.”
Following his speech on local radio, Kelce clarified his thoughts on social media. He noted that fans will come to love the new stadium, but he doesn’t like the idea of the owners pushing through a project that local residents oppose. A recent survey Data from registered voters in Philadelphia showed that only 18% of respondents supported the project.
The 76ers’ current lease with the Wells Fargo Center in South Philadelphia ends in 2031, and the team has been pushing for its own stadium in the center of the city. Earlier this month, HBSE has acknowledged an offer from Camden, New Jersey build a stadium there if the 76ers cannot reach an agreement with the city of Philadelphia.
Since the mayor’s formal announcement, organizations including Save Chinatown Coalition and No Arena Washington Square West have issued strong condemnations of the plan.
