Footprint Center (Formerly US Airways Center)

Although the Phoenix Suns home is nearly 20 years old, it looks as if it is one of the newest arenas in the NBA. Prior to moving into US Airways Center, the Suns played at the 13,000 seat Arizona Veterans Memorial Coliseum. The team had played there since their inception in 1968. By the late 1980s a new large state of the art basketball only arena was needed for the Suns. Construction on the $90 million arena began in 1988 and was paid for through city bonds and loans. Officials from the team toured NBA arenas across the league looking for the best features to incorporate into their new arena. America West paid $26 million over 30 years in 1992 to buy the naming rights to the facility.

FACTS & FIGURES
-Opened: 11/3/1992
-Capacity: 19,023
-Tenants: Phoenix Suns (NBA)
-Cost: $90 million
-Architect: Ellerbe Becket
-Address: 201 East Jefferson, Phoenix, AZ 85004
-Former Name(s): American West Arena
-Directions/Parking
-Seating Chart
-Local Hotels near US Airways Center

–Directions/Parking

On November 3, 1992, the Phoenix Suns played their first game at America West Arena winning against the Los Angeles Clippers. In November 2005, America West Arena was renamed US Airways Center after US Airways bought America West. The arena has a seating capacity of over 19,000 that includes 2,270 clubs seats and 88 luxury suites. Most fans enter US Airways Center through the Casino Arizona Pavilion that features soaring glass walls that serves as a gathering location. US Airways Center features many amenities including the Lexus Club Lounge and the Verizon Wireless Jungle, an interactive fun and games area for kids. With players such as Steve Nash, fans of the Suns hope that the team can bring a NBA Championship to the City of Phoenix.

About the Phoenix Suns

Location: The Phoenix Suns are a professional basketball team based in Phoenix, Arizona.

History: The Suns were founded in 1968 and are one of the original teams of the NBA’s Western Conference. The team has been a consistent playoff contender throughout its history and has reached the NBA Finals twice, in 1976 and 1993.

Key Players: The Suns have had several key players over the years, including Connie Hawkins, Alvan Adams, Charles Barkley, Steve Nash, and Amar’e Stoudemire.

“Seven Seconds or Less” Era: In the mid-2000s, the Suns were known for their fast-paced, up-tempo style of play, which earned them the nickname “Seven Seconds or Less.” The team was led by Steve Nash, who won two MVP awards during his time in Phoenix.

Coach Monty Williams: In 2019, the Suns hired Coach Monty Williams as head coach. Under his leadership, the team has improved greatly and has become a playoff contender once again.

Phoenix Suns Charities: The Suns are involved in several community outreach initiatives, including Phoenix Suns Charities, which focuses on youth development and health initiatives in the Phoenix area.

Fan Base: The Suns have a dedicated and passionate fan base, with many fans following the team for decades. The team’s success and commitment to the community have made the Suns a beloved sports franchise in the city of Phoenix.