T
he Philadelphia 76ers have pulled off a stunning reversal in their local arena saga, striking a deal to remain at the South Philadelphia Sports Complex beyond their current lease's expiration in 2031. The team and Comcast Spectacor, owner of the complex, will partner on a new arena project, which is expected to open in 2031 but could debut earlier. This decision comes after the City Council approved legislation for a $1.3 billion Center City arena just weeks ago.

    The Sixers' decision to stay in South Philadelphia was always an option, but it seemed unlikely following the contentious vote on the Center City project. The team's ownership group, Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, has burned political capital in the city after supporting the Center City move. NBA commissioner Adam Silver welcomed the news, while Mayor Cherelle Parker, a key supporter of the Center City arena, was noticeably absent from Monday's announcement.

    Comcast had previously unveiled a $2.5 billion plan for the complex, which includes a venue, hotel, and retail space in the first phase, as well as office space, housing, and more in the second phase. However, the future of Market Street in Center City remains uncertain, with the Sixers' ownership still holding parcels earmarked for development. A $20 million pledge to Chinatown residents for affordable housing is intact, but the fate of a community benefits agreement worth $60 million is unclear.

    The partnership between the Sixers and Comcast will also involve investing in an abandoned site, although details were not disclosed.