Despite an agreement between Philadelphia officials and the Philadelphia 76ers to keep the team in the city, New Jersey is not backing down from its pursuit to move the team to the Garden State. This week, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, Camden Mayor Vic Carstarphen, and other officials gave one of the Sixers' owners a tour of the proposed site in Camden where a new arena would be built for the team. The proposed site is located north of the Ben Franklin Bridge, along Camden’s waterfront.
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) has proposed a multi-billion dollar project to bring the Sixers' arena to Camden. The project includes a state-of-the-art arena as well as commercial, residential, and retail offerings. The NJEDA has offered up to $800 million in tax credits for the arena, residential, retail, and office space. The Sixers already have a team office and practice facility in Camden, which were partly attracted by state tax breaks.
According to Fox 29, the Sixers are running out of time to open the 2031-32 season in a new home, and as a result, they must take all potential options seriously, including this one.
However, the proposal has met with opposition. Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker has made it clear that she is opposed to the 76ers moving to Camden, New Jersey. The Save Chinatown Coalition, a group opposed to the arena, sees New Jersey's proposal as a threat and a ploy to get into a better negotiating position.
Despite the opposition, New Jersey officials remain hopeful. They want to remain in play should Philadelphia's deal with the team fall through.