Last Updated on June 16, 2026 by Mat Diekhake
The Philadelphia 76ers trace their history back to the Syracuse Nationals, one of the NBA’s earliest franchises. Since relocating to Philadelphia in 1963, the team has been owned by a small number of individuals and ownership groups that have overseen some of the most successful periods in franchise history.
Danny Biasone (1946–1963)
Danny Biasone founded the Syracuse Nationals in 1946 and served as the franchise’s principal owner for nearly two decades. He is best known for helping introduce the NBA’s 24-second shot clock, a rule that transformed professional basketball. Under his ownership, the Nationals won the 1955 NBA Championship before relocating to Philadelphia in 1963.
Irv Kosloff and Ike Richman (1963–1966)
Philadelphia businessmen Irv Kosloff and Ike Richman purchased the Syracuse Nationals and moved the franchise to Philadelphia in 1963, renaming the team the 76ers. Their ownership laid the foundation for one of the greatest teams in NBA history, led by Wilt Chamberlain.
Irv Kosloff (1966–1967)
After Ike Richman’s death in 1965, Irv Kosloff became the principal owner. During his brief period as sole controlling owner, the 76ers captured the 1967 NBA Championship, widely regarded as one of the greatest single-season teams ever assembled.
Jerry Wolman (1967–1970)
Real estate developer Jerry Wolman purchased the franchise following the championship season. Financial difficulties eventually forced him to sell the team after only a few years of ownership.
Irv Levin and Harold Katz (1970–1981)
A group led by Irv Levin and Harold Katz acquired the 76ers in 1970. The franchise remained competitive throughout the 1970s and returned to prominence behind stars such as Julius Erving.
Harold Katz (1981–1996)
Harold Katz became the controlling owner in 1981. Under his leadership, the 76ers won the 1983 NBA Championship, the franchise’s most recent NBA title. Katz remained owner for 15 years before selling the team in 1996.
Comcast Spectacor (1996–2011)
Comcast Spectacor purchased the 76ers in 1996. During this era, Philadelphia reached the 2001 NBA Finals behind league MVP Allen Iverson and remained one of the NBA’s most recognizable franchises.
Josh Harris and Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (2011–Present)
Investor Josh Harris led a group that acquired the 76ers in 2011. Operating under Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, the ownership group has overseen the franchise’s modern era, including multiple playoff appearances and the rise of stars such as Joel Embiid.
Philadelphia 76ers Ownership Timeline
| Owner | Years |
|---|---|
| Danny Biasone | 1946–1963 |
| Irv Kosloff & Ike Richman | 1963–1966 |
| Irv Kosloff | 1966–1967 |
| Jerry Wolman | 1967–1970 |
| Irv Levin & Harold Katz | 1970–1981 |
| Harold Katz | 1981–1996 |
| Comcast Spectacor | 1996–2011 |
| Josh Harris & Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment | 2011–Present |
The 76ers have had eight principal ownership eras dating back to their Syracuse Nationals roots. From Danny Biasone’s pioneering leadership to the current Josh Harris ownership group, each era has played a role in shaping one of the NBA’s most historic franchises.