The Sixers have hired the Jim Henson Creature Shop and Raymond Entertainment Group to develop a new team mascot.
"We have proclaimed quite loudly in Philadelphia that we will listen to Sixers fans," said Sixers Chief Executive Officer and co-owner Adam Aron.
InterACTION: Who should replace Hip-Hop
"In the 6,500 fan comments and suggestions we received so far there was a tidal wave of commentary suggesting the Sixers needed a new mascot. We have hired an incredibly talented duo in Jim Henson's Creature Shop and the Raymond Entertainment Group to help us develop a new mascot," said Aron.
The team said the process has already begun.
In a statement written with younger fans in mind, the team explained that Hip-Hop informed the team's new ownership group that he has fallen in love, married and will relocate to a rural part of Pennsylvania to start a family.
Hip-Hop "will therefore be unable to serve as the 76ers team mascot going forward, and will not again appear at a Sixers game," said the statement.
The new mascot comes at a time when the Sixers new ownership has pledged to transform and enhance the game presentation at Sixers games.
