New Jersey has made a significant move to attract the Philadelphia 76ers, offering an appealing deal for a new arena in Camden. This proposal has garnered attention from Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker, who quickly announced her city's agreement with the team for a proposed new arena in Center City near Chinatown.
However, the Philadelphia deal still requires city council approval and faces opposition from residents concerned about congestion. In contrast, New Jersey's offer includes generous tax incentives, a nearly shovel-ready site, and support from Governor Phil Murphy and legislative leaders.
Tom Bracken, President & CEO of the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce, stated: "You could say New Jersey’s offer is more attractive, more workable and more realistic."
Bracken acknowledged that moving a team from a city with deep-rooted traditions is challenging but emphasized not counting New Jersey out. He highlighted past successes like securing the FIFA World Cup 2026 final and relocating the Jets and Giants from New York. Additionally, he noted that the 76ers already have their practice facility and executive offices in Camden. Owners Josh Harris and David Blitzer are familiar with working in New Jersey as they also own the New Jersey Devils and their home arena, the Prudential Center.
Regardless of how this situation unfolds, Bracken praised Murphy's administration for acting swiftly on an economic opportunity that would benefit the state by driving growth and creating jobs. He remarked: "Even if the 76ers don’t bite, this ambitious offer puts Camden on the map for other high-profile companies looking for a home."
A potential move by the 76ers to Camden would be transformative for an urban area in New Jersey. Bracken pointed to projects like the $750 million HELIX innovation center in New Brunswick set to open next year and the $336 million redevelopment of Newark's Performing Arts Center campus as examples of successful collaborations between business and government benefiting residents.
The plan for Camden involves more than just building an arena; it includes residential, commercial, and retail spaces as part of a larger privately funded mixed-use development aimed at creating a vibrant waterfront community north of Ben Franklin Bridge.
Reflecting on job creation potential similar to MetLife Stadium's hiring event he recently attended, Bracken concluded: "Kudos to Murphy and Sullivan for setting the stage. We hope the 76ers say yes. But even if they don’t, it demonstrates New Jersey’s seriousness when it comes to economic growth —and our willingness to be innovative in attracting business to our state."
