Little Known Facts about the Philadelphia 76ers

The Philadelphia 76ers are a storied franchise with championships, iconic players, and a passionate fanbase. But behind the familiar moments are some surprising stories and lesser-known tidbits.

Let’s uncover the Sixers’ facts and secrets below.

1. The Nationals? The 76ers weren’t always from Philly! They began life in 1946 as the Syracuse Nationals, winning an NBA championship in 1955.
2. Why 76ers? A contest was held to rename the team after its 1963 move to Philadelphia. The winning entry honored the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
3. The Wilt Factor Wilt Chamberlain was an unstoppable force for the Sixers. He scored an NBA record 100 points in a single game and holds numerous team records.
4. The Doctor Was In Julius “Dr. J” Erving dazzled crowds with his gravity-defying dunks and became a legend. His style influenced how the modern game is played.
5. Barkley the Bold Charles Barkley was a fierce competitor known for his rebounding and trash-talking skills. He was a fan favorite, even if he ruffled feathers.
6. The Answer Arrives Allen Iverson, nicknamed “The Answer”, was a dynamic scorer and cultural icon. His style and attitude had a lasting impact on the NBA.
7. A Record Low The Sixers had a historically bad season in 1972/73, with a dismal 9-73 record. It spurred rebuilding efforts and became a cautionary tale.
8. Homecourt Variety Over the years, the Sixers have played home games in multiple arenas throughout Philadelphia, adding to their varied history.
9. Trust the Process The phrase “Trust the Process” became a mantra during a rebuilding period in the 2010s. It symbolized patience and belief in a long-term plan.
10. More Than a Team, a Movement The Sixers were the first major North American sports team to acquire an esports team, highlighting their forward-thinking approach.
11. City of Brotherly Love, Fierce Rivals Like the Lakers and Celtics, the Sixers share an intense rivalry with the Boston Celtics, making for classic matchups with a long history.
12. The Spectrum: A Legendary Arena The now-demolished Spectrum arena was the Sixers’ home for decades. It was known for its raucous atmosphere and passionate fans.
13. A.I.’s Iconic Step-Over In the 2001 NBA Finals, Allen Iverson made history with his iconic step-over move against Tyronn Lue, cementing his legendary status.
14. Lucky Number 76 The Sixers’ name isn’t just about a year! Their logo often incorporates the number 76, paying homage to their namesake.
15. More Than Players: Moses Malone Moses Malone led the Sixers to a championship in 1983 and was an incredible rebounder and scorer, earning him multiple MVP titles.