Mat Ishbia Eyes Hockey Revival in Arizona
The desert may soon echo with the clatter of hockey sticks once more, thanks to Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia. Known for his ambitious ventures and unwavering commitment to sports, Ishbia has now set his sights on reviving professional hockey in Arizona.
The news comes on the heels of the Arizona Coyotes' impending relocation. After the 2023-24 season, the Coyotes will pack up their sticks and head to Salt Lake City, where they will rebrand as the Utah Hockey Club. The team's inaugural season under its new name is set for 2025-26. This relocation marks the end of an era for Arizona, which has struggled to keep its NHL team despite the state's passionate fan base.
Mat Ishbia, familiar to many as the owner of both the Phoenix Suns and the WNBA's Phoenix Mercury, expressed his determination to bring hockey back to Arizona. "I'm definitely going to be part of the community, and if I can help bring hockey back, I'll look at that," Ishbia told Sportico. "It's definitely something I'm interested in. It's a four-sport town. I'm disappointed we don't have a hockey team, but I understand what happened, and we're going to try to fix that one day."
A History of Engagement
Ishbia's commitment to the Phoenix sports scene is unquestionable. Under his leadership, the Suns have thrived, and the Footprint Center, their shared home with the Phoenix Mercury, has seen significant upgrades. Recently, the WNBA All-Star Game was hosted at the Footprint Center, showcasing its status as a top-tier facility. Additionally, a $100 million women's practice facility was constructed behind the arena, underscoring Ishbia's dedication to supporting women's sports and enhancing the overall sports infrastructure in Phoenix.
The Footprint Center, while still highly regarded, may see further changes in the future. Ishbia acknowledges the eventual need for a new arena. "I think our arena is first-class right now. I love our arena. But at some point we're going to have to get a new arena," he commented, hinting at yet another potential development project that could solidify Phoenix's status as a major sports hub.
The Coyotes' Departure
The Coyotes' departure is a significant moment for Arizona hockey fans. From 2022 to 2024, the team played its home games at the relatively modest 5,000-seat Mullett Arena on Arizona State's campus in Tempe. Despite dedicated fans and a rich history, the Coyotes struggled with financial and logistical challenges. The team was eventually sold by Alex Meruelo for $1.2 billion, sealing the decision to relocate to Salt Lake City.
This move is undoubtedly a blow to Arizona's sports landscape. Yet, Ishbia's proactive stance offers a glimmer of hope. With the potential backing of a successful businessman who already understands the complexities and commitments required in the sports industry, there is optimism that hockey might once again find a home in the Grand Canyon State.
The Road Ahead
Reviving hockey in Arizona is no small task. Ishbia's vision will likely involve navigating a labyrinth of logistical, financial, and political hurdles. However, his previous successes inspire confidence. His ability to elevate the Footprint Center and invest heavily in the city's sports infrastructure demonstrates a capacity for transformative projects.
Sports fans in Arizona can take solace in the fact that they have an advocate in Ishbia. His commitment not only to the existing sports teams but also to the community at large bodes well for future endeavors. While the immediate loss of the Coyotes is felt deeply, the potential for a new team—under Ishbia's guidance—might soften the blow and reignite enthusiasm for hockey in the desert.
In a sports town that treasures its diverse athletic heritage, the absence of hockey feels incongruent. If Ishbia's ambitions come to fruition, Arizona's four-sport dreams may once again be realized, bringing hockey back to a community eager to support it.