Mat Ishbia Eyes Revival of Hockey in Arizona
In an ambitious move that underscores his commitment to Arizona's sports landscape, Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia has set his sights on bringing professional hockey back to the state. With the recent announcement of the Arizona Coyotes relocating to Salt Lake City following the 2023-24 season, Ishbia's vision is poised to fill the impending void and revitalize the region's hockey scene.
“I’m definitely going to be part of the community, and if I can help bring hockey back, I’ll look at that. It’s definitely something I’m interested in,” Ishbia told Sportico. “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.”
The loss of the Coyotes marks the end of an era for Arizona hockey fans, who have supported the team through tumultuous times and venues. The Coyotes' recent stint at the 5,000-seat Mullett Arena on Arizona State's campus in Tempe from 2022 to 2024 is a stark contrast to the grander days when the team drew larger crowds. The decision to move to Salt Lake City, rebranding as the Utah Hockey Club for the 2025-26 season, came after Alex Meruelo sold the Coyotes for a significant $1.2 billion.
A Vision for the Future
Ishbia's ambitions extend beyond just the preservation of professional hockey in Arizona. As the owner of both the Phoenix Suns and the WNBA's Phoenix Mercury, he is deeply invested in the community. The recent hosting of the WNBA All-Star Game at the Footprint Center is a testament to the arena's premier status. Ishbia, while clearly proud of the current facilities, does acknowledge that there may come a time for even further enhancement. “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 remarked.
In addition to the existing facilities, the construction of a $100 million women's practice facility behind the Footprint Center signifies a broader commitment to elevating sports infrastructure in the region. This development is expected to serve as a cornerstone for nurturing talent and providing state-of-the-art amenities for athletes.
The Importance of a Four-Sport Town
Arizona's identity as a four-sport town—hosting professional teams in basketball, baseball, football, and hockey—holds cultural and economic significance. The potential void left by the Coyotes' departure thus represents more than just the loss of a team. It impacts local businesses, fan communities, and the overall vibrancy of the city's sports calendar. Ishbia’s pursuit to reinstate a hockey franchise reflects a deeper recognition of this interconnected fabric.
“I’m disappointed we don’t have a hockey team,” Ishbia admitted, clearly articulating the emotional and social weight behind his endeavors. His proactive stance, coupled with his established business acumen, places him as a pivotal figure in the effort to revive Arizona's hockey legacy.
Community Commitment
Mat Ishbia's dedication is not just confined to professional basketball and women's sports. His forward-thinking approach suggests a holistic commitment to enriching Arizona’s sporting culture. By leveraging his resources and influence, he aims to restore what he views as an essential part of the local sports community.
The narrative of Arizona hockey is one of resilience and potential. With a figure like Mat Ishbia at the helm, there is renewed hope that the state’s storied past with the sport can transition into a promising future. As plans begin to unfold, fans, athletes, and stakeholders alike will be closely watching Ishbia’s next moves, eager for the return of the sport they so dearly miss.
While the future remains uncertain, what is clear is Ishbia’s unwavering determination. His vision for reinstating hockey reflects a broader ambition to fortify Arizona’s status as a premier sports destination, ensuring that the valley of the sun continues to shine bright in the world of professional sports.