Mat Ishbia Eyes Return of Hockey in Arizona
Mat Ishbia, the visionary owner of the Phoenix Suns and the WNBA's Phoenix Mercury, has set his sights on an ambitious new goal: bringing hockey back to Arizona. In recent conversations, Ishbia expressed his disappointment over the state's loss of its NHL team, the Arizona Coyotes, and his determination to rectify the situation.
"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 Arizona Coyotes, who have struggled for years with financial instability and venue issues, are set to relocate to Salt Lake City following the 2023-24 campaign. The relocation marks the end of an era for hockey in Arizona but also the beginning of a new chapter as the team is rebranded as the Utah Hockey Club, set for its inaugural season in 2025-26.
Over the past few years, the Coyotes' woes were exacerbated by the limitations of their temporary home at Arizona State's 5,000-seat Mullett Arena in Tempe. This came after years of uncertainty and failed attempts to secure a more permanent venue solution. Alex Meruelo's sale of the team for $1.2 billion indicates that financial issues were significant factors in the decision to relocate.
However, Ishbia's confidence in Arizona's potential for hosting a successful hockey franchise remains unwavering. His commitment to the local sports community is evidenced not only by his ownership of the Suns and Mercury but also by the considerable investments made in the Footprint Center, the shared home of both teams.
Recently, the Footprint Center showcased its high standards by hosting the WNBA All-Star Game, an event that was received with enthusiasm by fans and participants alike. Moreover, a $100 million women's practice facility has been constructed behind the arena, reflecting Ishbia's dedication to fostering top-tier sports infrastructure in the region.
"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," Ishbia remarked, hinting at his broader vision for enhancing the sports facilities in Arizona.
The question now arises: Could Ishbia's leadership and demonstrated willingness to invest help overcome the obstacles that previously plagued hockey in Arizona? While the answer remains uncertain, his proactive stance and track record provide a glimmer of hope for hockey enthusiasts in the state.
Ishbia recognizes that bringing an NHL team back to Arizona will not be an easy feat. Nonetheless, his determination to fill the void left by the Coyotes' departure could galvanize efforts to find a new path forward. It may involve building a state-of-the-art arena, enticing potential investors, and showcasing the value that a robust hockey team could bring to the local community.
The Phoenix area, known for its passionate sports fans, has the potential to support a four-sport city. Ishbia's plans, should they come to fruition, would bring renewed excitement and opportunity for fans and aspiring athletes alike. As he continues to evaluate opportunities to reinvigorate hockey in Arizona, the sports community watches with hopeful anticipation.