What Happened to Talking Stick Resort Arena?

By Anna Duncan

Talking Stick Resort Arena, formerly known as the US Airways Center, is a multi-purpose arena located in downtown Phoenix, Arizona. This venue has been home to the NBA’s Phoenix Suns since 1992 and also hosts concerts, trade shows, and other events throughout the year. However, in recent years there have been discussions about the future of this iconic arena.

The Renaming of Talking Stick Resort Arena

In 2018, the arena underwent a name change from the US Airways Center to Talking Stick Resort Arena. The new name reflects a partnership between the Phoenix Suns and Talking Stick Resort, a popular casino and resort located in Scottsdale, Arizona.

The Need for Renovations

Despite the name change and continued use as a home base for sports and entertainment events in Phoenix, there have been ongoing discussions about renovations to improve the arena’s infrastructure. Some of the upgrades that have been proposed include:

  • Improved seating arrangements
  • Upgraded technology for audio/visual displays
  • Enhanced food and beverage options
  • Better accessibility for fans with disabilities

The Future of Talking Stick Resort Arena

In early 2019, there were talks of building a new arena to replace Talking Stick Resort Arena. These conversations were sparked by concerns about outdated facilities that no longer met modern standards for sports venues. However, these plans were put on hold when Robert Sarver, owner of the Phoenix Suns, announced that he would be investing $230 million into renovating Talking Stick Resort Arena.

The renovations are set to begin in 2020 and will be completed in time for the NBA’s 2021-2022 season. This investment will not only help maintain this iconic venue’s relevance but also provide an improved experience for fans and visitors.

The Importance of Talking Stick Resort Arena

Talking Stick Resort Arena is more than just a sports and entertainment venue. It’s a symbol of Phoenix’s growth and development as a city. The arena has been the site of many memorable moments, including the Suns’ run to the NBA Finals in 1993 and 2007, as well as hosting major events like the NBA All-Star Game and NCAA Final Four.

As Phoenix continues to evolve, Talking Stick Resort Arena will remain an important part of the city’s history and future. With renovations on the horizon, this iconic venue will continue to bring fans together for years to come.