Mat Ishbia Eyes Bringing Hockey Back to Arizona
The quest to rejuvenate hockey in Arizona has found a new advocate in Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia. Following the announcement that the Arizona Coyotes will be relocating to Salt Lake City after the 2023-24 campaign, Ishbia has voiced his ambitions to return the sport to the state.
"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. His determination is palpable as he aims to restore Arizona’s status as 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," he added.
The Coyotes' impending move marks the end of an era for Arizona hockey. The team, which played its home games at the 5,000-seat Mullett Arena on Arizona State's campus in Tempe from 2022 to 2024, is set to undergo a significant transformation. Renamed the Utah Hockey Club, the team will commence its inaugural season in Salt Lake City in 2025-26. The decision to relocate comes after Alex Meruelo sold the Coyotes for a substantial $1.2 billion.
Building a Sports Legacy in Phoenix
Ishbia’s vision for Arizona's sports landscape doesn't start or stop with hockey. As the current owner of both the Phoenix Suns and the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury, he has already demonstrated a commitment to enhancing local sports facilities. The Footprint Center, which recently hosted the WNBA All-Star Game, has become a focal point of his investments. A testament to his dedication is the new $100 million women's practice facility built behind the arena, underscoring his investment in the future of women's basketball.
The Footprint Center, home to the Phoenix Mercury, is seen by Ishbia as a cornerstone of the city’s sports infrastructure. "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, indicating his forward-thinking approach to sports venue development in Phoenix.
The Path Forward for Arizona Hockey
While the relocation of the Coyotes marks a significant shift, Ishbia’s commitment to reviving hockey in Arizona brings a glimmer of hope. Although the logistics and specifics of how this goal will be achieved remain uncertain, his comments suggest a readiness to explore various avenues to bring NHL action back to the region.
For the sports community and fans in Arizona, Ishbia’s pledge is more than just a promise; it's a beacon of potential renewal. His proactive stance and willingness to engage with complex community needs indicate an enduring commitment to the state's sports culture.
As the Utah Hockey Club prepares for its new beginning, the legacy of the Arizona Coyotes will not be forgotten. Arizona sports enthusiasts now look forward to Ishbia’s efforts to fill the void left by the Coyotes’ departure, hopeful that professional hockey will once again find a home in the desert.