50 Facts About Philadelphia 76ers

The Birth and Evolution of the Philadelphia 76ers

The Philadelphia 76ers, known as the Sixers, have a storied history that dates back to their inception. From their beginnings as the Syracuse Nationals to their current status as an NBA powerhouse, the Sixers have a rich legacy.

1. The Philadelphia 76ers were founded in 1946 as the Syracuse Nationals. The team relocated to Philadelphia in 1963 and adopted the name we know today.

2. The name "76ers" was chosen by Walter Stahlberg, a resident of West Collingswood, New Jersey, who won a contest to name the club.

3. The Philadelphia 76ers have won three NBA championships. Their first title came under their previous name, the Syracuse Nationals, in 1955. The second title was in 1967, led by Wilt Chamberlain, and the third was in 1983, led by Julius Erving and Moses Malone.

Legendary Players and Iconic Moments

The Sixers have been home to some of the greatest players in NBA history. These legends have left an indelible mark on the franchise and the sport itself.

4. Wilt Chamberlain is considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time. During his time with the 76ers, he achieved numerous records and accolades.

5. Allen Iverson was a superstar for the 76ers in the early 2000s. He led the team to the NBA Finals in 2001 and became a cultural icon in the process.

6. Julius Erving played a key role in popularizing the 76ers. His dazzling dunks and artistic style of play captivated audiences and helped elevate the team’s popularity to new heights.

7. The 76ers have a dedicated fan base known as the “Sixth Man.” Philadelphia fans are infamous for their unwavering support and passionate energy, creating a spirited atmosphere at every home game.

8. The team boasts a thrilling cheerleading squad known as the “Sixers Dancers.” These talented performers bring energy and excitement to the arena, adding to the overall game experience.

Notable Coaches and Leadership

Coaching has played a significant role in shaping the Sixers' success. Several notable head coaches have guided the team through various eras.

9. The 76ers have had several notable head coaches, including Billy Cunningham, Larry Brown, and Brett Brown, who have guided the team at different points in their history.

10. From Charles Barkley to Moses Malone to Joel Embiid, the team has been home to some of the most remarkable talents in NBA history. Chamberlain, Erving, Malone, Iverson, and Joel Embiid have been named the NBA's Most Valuable Player while playing for the 76ers, for a total of seven MVP awards.

Record-Breaking Achievements

The Sixers have set numerous records throughout their history, showcasing their dominance and resilience.

11. The 76ers hold the record for the longest winning streak in NBA history. In the 2017-2018 season, the team won an impressive 16 consecutive games, cementing their status as a force to be reckoned with.

12. The team’s colors are blue, red, and white. These colors represent the team’s identity and can be seen proudly displayed by fans during games.

13. The 76ers play their home games at the Wells Fargo Center located in the South Philadelphia Sports Complex. The arena has been a significant part of the team’s history, hosting numerous memorable games and events.

14. The 76ers are owned and managed by Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE). The team was acquired by founders Josh Harris and David Blitzer in 2011.

Historic Trades and Milestones

Key trades and milestones have defined the Sixers' journey, leading to unforgettable moments and achievements.

15. The 76ers finished their first season in Philadelphia with a loss in the playoffs to Cincinnati. The season included many other firsts, such as Dolph Schayes being named the team’s first coach and Hal Greer becoming the first Sixers All-Star.

16. The 76ers traded Paul Neumann, Connie Dierking, Lee Shaffer, and cash to the Warriors for Wilt Chamberlain in January 1965. This trade marked the beginning of a successful era for the team.

17. Wilt Chamberlain led the 76ers to their first Eastern Division title in March 1966. He became the first Sixer to lead the NBA in scoring and rebounding that season.

18. The 76ers finished the regular season with an astounding 68-13 record and crushed Boston’s hopes for a ninth straight title. They defeated San Francisco 125-122 in Game 6 of the NBA Finals, winning their second NBA Championship.

19. Wilt Chamberlain scored a franchise record 68 points in a 143-123 win at Chicago on December 16, 1967.

Celebrating Legends

The Sixers have honored their legends by retiring jerseys and celebrating their contributions to the franchise.

20. Julius Erving was purchased from the New York Nets in October 1976. He went on to score 18,364 points and block a franchise record 1,293 shots in 11 seasons with the 76ers.

21. Hal Greer’s jersey No. 15 was retired on November 19, 1976. Greer played 15 seasons with the franchise and scored a franchise record 21,586 points.

22. Billy Cunningham’s jersey No. 32 was retired on December 17, 1976. Cunningham played nine seasons with the 76ers and was named 1966 NBA Rookie of the Year and a four-time All-NBA selection.

23. Led by Julius Erving, Moses Malone, and Maurice Cheeks, the 76ers defeated the L.A. Lakers 115-108, capturing the NBA Championship in May 1983. The team culminated a 65-17 regular season and a 12-1 run through the playoffs, with a sweep of the Lakers in the NBA Finals.

24. Charles Barkley was drafted by the 76ers as the fifth overall pick in June 1984. He played eight seasons in Philadelphia, scoring 14,184 points in 610 games.

25. The microphone of David Zinkoff, the 76ers public address announcer for 22 seasons (1963-85), was retired on March 25, 1986.

26. Dolph Schayes’ jersey No. 4 was retired on March 12, 2016. Schayes played 15 NBA seasons, including 14 with the Syracuse Nationals before the team relocated to Philadelphia for the 1963-64 season.

Modern Era and Recent Success

The Sixers continue to build on their legacy with recent achievements and rising stars.

27. Bryan Colangelo was named President of Basketball Operations on April 10, 2016.

28. Joel Embiid started the 67th NBA All-Star Game in Los Angeles on February 18, 2018. He became the first 76er to be named an All-Star game starter since Allen Iverson in 2009-10.

29. Moses Malone’s jersey No. 2 was retired on February 8, 2019. Malone appeared in 357 games over five seasons with the 76ers, averaging 21.0 points, 12.0 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks in 33.1 minutes per game and earning All-Star nods in four straight campaigns from 1982-86.

30. The 76ers marked the first time they have won 50-plus games in back-to-back seasons since doing so in seven straight from 1979-86. They achieved this feat in the 2017-2018 and 2018-2019 seasons, winning 52 and 51 games respectively.

Challenges and Triumphs

The Sixers have faced their share of challenges, but their resilience has always shone through.

31. The 76ers set a record for futility in pro basketball when they concluded the 1972-73 season with a 9-73 record, which still stands today. This season was marked by significant struggles, including a 20-game losing streak and a final record of 4-58 after the losing streak.

32. Andy Dolich, a veteran sports executive, started his career by working with the 76ers during their infamous 1972-73 season. His experience with the team marked the beginning of a successful career spanning 40 years across various sports leagues.

33. The Spectrum, which opened in 1967, was a significant venue for the 76ers. It hosted numerous memorable games and events, including the team’s championship wins. The arena was also home to other sports teams like the Philadelphia Flyers and the Philadelphia Phillies.

34. The 1966-67 76ers were voted the best team in league history during the NBA’s 35th anniversary celebration in October 1980. This team, led by Wilt Chamberlain, achieved an impressive 68-13 regular season record and won the NBA Championship.

35. Wilt Chamberlain’s dominance on the court was unmatched. He led the 76ers to their first Eastern Division title and was instrumental in their 1967 NBA Championship. Chamberlain’s record-breaking performance included scoring 68 points in a single game against the Chicago Bulls.

Impactful Players and Their Legacies

The contributions of key players have left a lasting impact on the Sixers and the NBA.

36. Julius Erving’s artistic style of play captivated audiences and helped elevate the team’s popularity. His dazzling dunks and overall skill on the court made him a fan favorite and a key player in the team’s success during the 1970s and 1980s.

37. Allen Iverson’s impact on the team was significant. His flashy style and unstoppable scoring ability led the team to the NBA Finals in 2001. Iverson became a cultural icon and is remembered for his contributions to the team both on and off the court.

38. Charles Barkley’s tenacity on the court was a defining characteristic of his playing style. He played eight seasons with the 76ers, earning multiple All-Star selections and cementing his place as one of the greatest power forwards in NBA history.

39. Moses Malone’s leadership on the court was instrumental in the 76ers’ 1983 NBA Championship. His dominant performance in the paint and his ability to score and rebound made him a valuable asset to the team.

40. Joel Embiid’s rise to stardom began with his selection as the third overall pick in the 2014 NBA draft. He quickly became a dominant force in the league, earning multiple All-Star selections and leading the team to several playoff appearances.

The Sixth Man and Home Court Advantage

The Sixers' fan base and home court have always been integral to their success.

41. The Sixers Dancers are a talented cheerleading squad that brings energy and excitement to the arena. They perform during games, adding to the overall game experience and entertaining fans with their choreographed routines.

42. The Sixth Man is a term used to describe the dedicated fan base of the Philadelphia 76ers. These fans are known for their unwavering support and passionate energy, creating a spirited atmosphere at every home game.

43. The Wells Fargo Center is the current home arena of the Philadelphia 76ers. Located in the South Philadelphia Sports Complex, it has hosted numerous memorable games and events, including playoff games and concerts.

44. Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE) owns and manages the Philadelphia 76ers. Founded by Josh Harris and David Blitzer, HBSE has been instrumental in the team’s success, providing strategic leadership and financial support.

Coaching Legends and Their Impact

Coaches have played a pivotal role in shaping the Sixers' strategies and successes.

45. Billy Cunningham was not only a legendary player but also a successful coach. He led the 76ers to their 1967 NBA Championship and was known for his defensive-minded approach to the game.

46. Larry Brown was hired as head coach in 1997. Known for his defense-first approach, Brown transformed unsuccessful teams into winners by "playing the right way." His tenure with the 76ers was marked by significant improvements in team performance.

47. Brett Brown served as head coach from 2013 to 2020. During his tenure, the team experienced periods of success, including back-to-back 50-win seasons in 2017-2018 and 2018-2019.

Venues and Their Legacy

The arenas that have hosted the Sixers have been more than just buildings; they have been homes to countless memories.

48. The CoreStates Center was the home arena of the 76ers from 1996 to 2003. During this period, the team underwent significant changes, including the hiring of new coaches and the emergence of new stars like Allen Iverson.

49. The Spectrum, which was the home arena from 1967 to 1996, left a lasting legacy on the team. It hosted numerous memorable games and events, including championship wins and playoff series. The arena was also known for its electric atmosphere, which was fueled by passionate fans.

Modern Era Success

In recent years, the 76ers have experienced significant success under the leadership of Joel Embiid and other key players.

50. In recent years, the 76ers have experienced significant success under the leadership of Joel Embiid and other key players. The team has made multiple playoff appearances and continues to strive for championship glory, solidifying their position as one of the top teams in the NBA.

The Sixers' Legacy

The Philadelphia 76ers have a rich history filled with legendary players, unforgettable moments, and passionate fans. From their beginnings as the Syracuse Nationals to their current status as an NBA powerhouse, the Sixers have left an indelible mark on basketball. Wilt Chamberlain's dominance, Julius Erving's artistry, and Allen Iverson's grit are just a few highlights in a storied timeline. The team's three NBA championships and numerous individual accolades showcase their excellence. With a dedicated fan base and a promising future led by stars like Joel Embiid, the Sixers continue to be a force in the league. Their journey is a testament to resilience, talent, and the unwavering support of their fans. The 76ers' legacy is not just about past glory but also about the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.