The Phoenix Suns, a professional basketball team based in Phoenix, Arizona, has a rich history that spans over five decades. Since their inception in 1968, the team has called several arenas home, with the most recent being the Footprint Center (previously known as America West Arena and US Airways Center). In this article, we will delve into the history of the Suns arena, exploring its construction, renovations, and significant events that have shaped the team’s identity.
Introduction to the Suns Arena
The Suns arena, currently known as the Footprint Center, has been the home of the Phoenix Suns since 1992. Located in downtown Phoenix, the arena has a seating capacity of approximately 18,422 for basketball games and has hosted numerous high-profile events, including concerts, mixed martial arts events, and conventions. The arena’s history dates back to the late 1980s, when the city of Phoenix and the Phoenix Suns organization began exploring options for a new, state-of-the-art facility.
Construction and Opening
The construction of the America West Arena, as it was originally known, began in 1988 and was completed in 1992. The arena was designed by the architectural firm Ellerbe Becket and built by the Huber, Hunt & Nichols construction company. The total construction cost was approximately $89 million, which is equivalent to over $170 million in today’s dollars. The arena officially opened on June 6, 1992, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by city officials, team owners, and local dignitaries.
Initial Reception and Features
Upon its opening, the America West Arena was hailed as a cutting-edge facility, featuring a unique design that included a retractable roof and a large, center-hung videoboard. The arena’s seating capacity was designed to be flexible, with the ability to accommodate different configurations for various events. The arena’s initial reception was overwhelmingly positive, with fans and critics alike praising its comfortable seating, excellent sightlines, and modern amenities.
Renovations and Name Changes
Over the years, the Suns arena has undergone several renovations and name changes. In 2006, the arena was renamed US Airways Center, following a naming rights deal with the airline. The deal was worth approximately $20 million over five years and helped to offset the costs of maintaining and upgrading the facility. In 2015, the arena underwent a major renovation, which included the installation of a new videoboard, upgraded seating, and improved concourse amenities.
Name Change to Footprint Center
In 2020, the arena was renamed Footprint Center, following a naming rights deal with Footprint, a sustainable technology firm. The deal was worth approximately $10 million per year over five years and marked a significant shift in the arena’s branding and identity. The name change was seen as a positive move, as it reflected the arena’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Recent Upgrades and Improvements
In recent years, the Footprint Center has undergone several upgrades and improvements, including the installation of a new sound system, upgraded lighting, and improved Wi-Fi connectivity. The arena has also expanded its concourse amenities, adding new restaurants, bars, and retail outlets. These upgrades have helped to enhance the overall fan experience, making the Footprint Center one of the premier entertainment venues in the western United States.
Significant Events and Milestones
The Suns arena has hosted numerous significant events and milestones throughout its history. Some of the most notable include:
- The 1993 NBA All-Star Game, which was held at the America West Arena and featured a star-studded lineup of players, including Charles Barkley, Patrick Ewing, and Shaquille O’Neal.
- The 2009 NBA All-Star Game, which was held at the US Airways Center and featured a memorable performance by Shaquille O’Neal, who was traded to the Phoenix Suns earlier that season.
Concerts and Other Events
In addition to hosting basketball games and other sports events, the Footprint Center has also hosted a wide range of concerts and other events. Some of the most notable performers to have taken the stage at the arena include Taylor Swift, Kanye West, and The Rolling Stones. The arena has also hosted mixed martial arts events, including UFC fights, and has served as a venue for conventions, trade shows, and other large-scale events.
Community Impact
The Suns arena has had a significant impact on the local community, generating millions of dollars in revenue and creating hundreds of jobs. The arena has also served as a hub for charitable events and fundraisers, with the Phoenix Suns organization and its players actively involved in various community outreach programs. The arena’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility has also helped to raise awareness about the importance of reducing waste and promoting eco-friendly practices.
In conclusion, the history of the Suns arena is a rich and fascinating one, spanning over three decades. From its construction in the late 1980s to the present day, the arena has undergone numerous renovations, name changes, and upgrades. As the home of the Phoenix Suns, the Footprint Center continues to be an integral part of the team’s identity and a source of pride for the local community. With its commitment to sustainability, excellent amenities, and world-class events, the Footprint Center is sure to remain a premier entertainment venue for years to come. The Suns arena’s history is a testament to the power of sports and entertainment to bring people together and create lasting memories.
What is the history behind the construction of the Suns Arena?
The history behind the construction of the Suns Arena is a long and fascinating one. The arena was first conceived in the late 1980s, when the Phoenix Suns basketball team was looking to replace their aging home, the Arizona Veterans Memorial Coliseum. After several years of planning and negotiation, ground was finally broken on the new arena in 1990. The construction process took approximately two years to complete, with a team of skilled architects, engineers, and contractors working tirelessly to bring the vision to life.
The Suns Arena was officially opened on June 6, 1992, with a grand opening ceremony that featured a concert by the rock band, Billy Joel. The arena was an instant hit, with its sleek and modern design, state-of-the-art amenities, and stunning views of the surrounding cityscape. Over the years, the arena has undergone several renovations and upgrades, including the installation of a new scoreboard, the addition of premium seating areas, and the implementation of advanced security measures. Today, the Suns Arena is widely regarded as one of the premier sports and entertainment venues in the United States, hosting a wide range of events, from NBA games and concerts to mixed martial arts events and corporate functions.
How has the Suns Arena impacted the local community?
The Suns Arena has had a profound impact on the local community, generating millions of dollars in revenue and creating thousands of jobs. The arena has also played host to a wide range of community events, including charity functions, high school graduations, and cultural festivals. Additionally, the arena has served as a catalyst for urban development, with numerous new businesses and restaurants opening in the surrounding area. The arena’s presence has also helped to revitalize the downtown Phoenix area, making it a more vibrant and attractive place to live, work, and visit.
The Suns Arena has also been a Driver of economic growth, with a study by the Phoenix Chamber of Commerce finding that the arena generates over $100 million in economic impact each year. This impact is felt throughout the community, with local businesses benefiting from the influx of visitors and event-goers. Furthermore, the arena has also played a key role in promoting tourism, with many visitors traveling to Phoenix specifically to attend events at the arena. Overall, the Suns Arena has been a valuable addition to the local community, providing a wide range of benefits and opportunities for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.
What are some of the most notable events held at the Suns Arena?
The Suns Arena has played host to a wide range of notable events over the years, including numerous NBA playoff games, concerts, and mixed martial arts events. One of the most notable events held at the arena was the 1995 NBA Finals, in which the Phoenix Suns faced off against the Houston Rockets. The arena has also hosted several high-profile concerts, including performances by legendary artists such as Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Elvis Presley. Additionally, the arena has been the site of several major mixed martial arts events, including UFC fights and wrestling matches.
The Suns Arena has also been the venue for several major awards shows and ceremonies, including the Grammy Awards and the Billboard Music Awards. In addition, the arena has hosted several high-profile corporate events, including conferences, product launches, and company meetings. The arena’s versatility and state-of-the-art amenities make it an ideal venue for a wide range of events, from small, intimate gatherings to large, high-profile productions. Whether it’s a sporting event, concert, or corporate function, the Suns Arena has proven itself to be a world-class venue capable of hosting even the most complex and demanding events.
How has the Suns Arena changed over the years?
The Suns Arena has undergone several changes over the years, with numerous renovations and upgrades aimed at improving the fan experience and keeping the arena competitive with other venues. One of the most significant changes was the installation of a new scoreboard in 2010, which features state-of-the-art video and audio technology. The arena has also added several new premium seating areas, including luxury suites and club seats, which offer fans a more comfortable and exclusive experience. Additionally, the arena has implemented advanced security measures, including metal detectors and surveillance cameras, to ensure the safety and security of fans and event staff.
The Suns Arena has also expanded its amenities in recent years, adding several new restaurants, bars, and concessions stands. The arena now features a wide range of dining and entertainment options, from classic arena fare such as hot dogs and popcorn to more upscale options such as fine dining and craft cocktails. The arena has also improved its accessibility, with the addition of new elevators, escalators, and ramps making it easier for fans with disabilities to navigate the venue. Overall, the Suns Arena has continued to evolve and improve over the years, ensuring that it remains a world-class venue capable of hosting a wide range of events and providing a memorable experience for fans.
What is the seating capacity of the Suns Arena?
The seating capacity of the Suns Arena is approximately 18,422 for basketball games, although this number can vary depending on the event and configuration. The arena features a unique, asymmetrical design, with the majority of seats located on one side of the court. This design allows for a more intimate and engaging experience for fans, with every seat providing a great view of the action on the court. The arena also features several premium seating areas, including luxury suites and club seats, which offer fans a more comfortable and exclusive experience.
The seating capacity of the Suns Arena can be expanded or reduced depending on the event, with the ability to accommodate a wide range of configurations and setups. For example, the arena can be configured to seat up to 19,000 fans for concerts, or reduced to seat as few as 5,000 fans for more intimate events such as theater productions or comedy shows. The arena’s flexible design and state-of-the-art amenities make it an ideal venue for a wide range of events, from small, private gatherings to large, high-profile productions. Whether it’s a sporting event, concert, or corporate function, the Suns Arena has the seating capacity and amenities to meet the needs of any event.
Can I take a tour of the Suns Arena?
Yes, it is possible to take a tour of the Suns Arena, although tours are typically only available on non-event days and must be scheduled in advance. The arena offers a guided tour that takes visitors behind the scenes, providing a unique glimpse into the inner workings of the venue. The tour includes stops at the court, the locker rooms, and the premium seating areas, as well as access to the arena’s state-of-the-art amenities and facilities. Visitors will also have the opportunity to learn about the history of the arena and see memorabilia and exhibits showcasing the Phoenix Suns and other events that have taken place at the venue.
The tour of the Suns Arena is a must-see for any sports fan or anyone interested in learning more about the inner workings of a world-class venue. The tour is typically led by a knowledgeable and experienced guide who can provide insight and answer questions about the arena and its operations. Visitors will also have the opportunity to take photos and learn about the arena’s unique features and amenities. Whether you’re a local resident or just visiting the area, a tour of the Suns Arena is a great way to experience the excitement and energy of this world-class venue. Tours can be scheduled by contacting the arena directly or through a local tour operator.
How do I get to the Suns Arena?
The Suns Arena is located in downtown Phoenix, Arizona, and is easily accessible by car, bus, or light rail. The arena is situated near the intersection of Jefferson Street and First Street, with several parking garages and lots located nearby. Visitors can also take advantage of the arena’s proximity to the Phoenix Metro light rail system, with several stops located within walking distance of the venue. Additionally, the arena is served by several bus routes, providing convenient and affordable transportation options for fans and event-goers.
The Suns Arena is also located near several major highways, including Interstate 10 and Highway 202, making it easy to access by car. Visitors can use a GPS or mapping device to get directions to the arena, or follow signs from the highway or downtown area. The arena also offers a range of parking options, including premium parking and valet service, to make it easy and convenient to park and access the venue. Once you arrive at the arena, you’ll be greeted by a team of friendly and knowledgeable staff who can provide directions, answer questions, and help you make the most of your visit.