BAs an icon of the Eagles, the former NFL star is a favored son in Philly which is why his opinion of the 76ers’ potential arena rebuild does carry some weight It’s a case of ‘tell us how you really feel’ when it comes to the former Philadelphia Eagles defensive star. Indeed, the now-retired center didn’t hold back when addressing the NBA’s Philadelphia 76ers and the franchise’s plans for a new arena.
Jason Kelce doesn’t like the 76ers’ plans
The Philadelphia 76ers are reportedly set to build a new arena in downtown Center City. Needless to say, such a move would have a significant effect on Philadelphia’s sporting and commercial landscape. Now, while the idea was officially endorsed by Mayor Cherelle Parker on Wednesday, the relocation from South Philly is not a venture that is loved by all and certainly not one of the city’s most famous faces. Indeed, Philadelphia Eagles legend Jason Kelce has now made it clear that it’s the last thTo be clear, the proposed arena would open ahead of the 2031-32 NBA season and would still require approval from the city council, but understandably has caused intense debate. Speaking during an appearance on the “WIP Morning Show” on. Thursday, Kelce showcased that by speaking directly to his concerns about the displacement of Chinatown residents. “I would prefer it stays in South Philly, unquestionably,” Kelce said. “I’ll say this, when it does get built in Center City and all of these people are displaced, at the end of the day people are probably going to love it. In 10 years, all of this is gonna be different, and we’re probably going to be really happy that there’s this beautiful complex that was developed down there in a thriving part of the city. Right now, I really hate it.”
As always, there is context here which is to say as a native of Cleveland, Ohio, Kelce witnessed the controversy that surrounded the proposed move of the Cleveland Browns to Baltimore by then-owner Art Modell. According to Kelce, he was “scarred” by the experience such that the idea of ownership making such a decision without considering citizens is simply too much to tolerate. “All of these people have devoted all of their time, all of their efforts, all of their money, and a lifetime of fandom toward this team, and now you’re going to strong-arm people against what the city wants,” Kelce said. “I really have a hard time being OK with that. I’m not OK with it. I think it’s wrong .”
