Home of ex-Philadelphia 76ers President Pat Croce headed for auction

A Villanova, Pa., home owned by author, entrepreneur and former Philadelphia 76ers President Pat Croce will go to auction Oct. 25.

Croce and his wife, Diane, listed the property for sale in December at $7.95 million. Most recently listed at $6.25 million, the 10,625-square-foot residence is now slated to be sold to the highest bidder through an “absolute auction” held by Premier Estates Auction Co.

“Mr. Croce and his wife, Diane, are empty nesters and no longer have the need for this 10,000-plus-square-foot home on such large acreage,” Michael Schwartz, director of national sales for Premier Estates Auction, said in a statement. “The absolute auction process gives the Croces what they are looking for: a final sales date.”

The estate, built in 1926, occupies 3.55 landscaped acres with a Colonial-style manor, a fitness center, a pool, a pool house, a separate retreat and a tennis court. Entered through a grand foyer with a sweeping staircase, the two-story floor plan features custom millwork, detailed molding, a range of hardwoods and French Doors.

Among features is a library with rich wood paneling, a game room with a wet bar and a chef’s kitchen with custom cabinetry. The master suite sports a private retreat with a fireplace, his and her baths and a sitting area. In all, the home counts six bedrooms, five full bathrooms and five fireplaces.

Croce, 59, served as team president of the 76ers from 1996 to 2001 and took part in two major milestones with the Philadelphia franchise: drafting Allen Iverson No. 1 overall in the 1996 draft and overseeing the 76ers’ NBA finals run in 2001. He currently works as an author, restaurateur and pirate authority.

Public records show that the property last sold in 1993 for $2.35 million.

Twitter: @NJLeitereg