Suns Set to Shine with New Arena Name and Preseason Preparations

The Phoenix Suns are gearing up for an exciting new era as they prepare for the upcoming NBA season, marked by significant changes both on and off the court. With a fresh arena name and an energized roster, the Suns are ready to make their mark in the 2025-26 season.

New Arena Name, New Beginnings

In a groundbreaking move, the Phoenix Suns and the WNBA's Phoenix Mercury have announced a landmark naming rights partnership with Mortgage Matchup, leading to the renaming of their home venue to the Mortgage Matchup Center. This $115 million deal not only signifies a new chapter for the teams but also reflects the ambitious vision of Suns owner Mat Ishbia, who is at the helm of Mortgage Matchup. The venue, formerly known as PHX Arena, has been a cornerstone of the Phoenix sports landscape since its opening in 1992, and this rebranding is set to usher in a new era of sports and entertainment in Arizona.

Preseason Insights and Roster Updates

As the Suns embark on their preseason journey, anticipation is building among fans and analysts alike. The team is set to face the Los Angeles Lakers in their opener, but they'll be missing projected starting center Mark Williams due to injury. This absence highlights the ongoing challenges the Suns face in solidifying their roster as they navigate the delicate balance of performance and health.

Moreover, the Suns have recently exercised the third-year team option on forward Ryan Dunn, securing his contract for the 2026-27 season at $2.8 million. This strategic move signals the organization’s commitment to developing young talent as they aim to build a sustainable competitive team.

A Season of Change

The Suns’ offseason has been marked by significant upheaval, with changes in the front office, coaching staff, and roster composition. The franchise is not only looking to bounce back from previous disappointments but also to instill a renewed sense of identity and purpose. The addition of promising players and the reshaping of their strategy may be key to revitalizing their playoff ambitions.

As the preseason progresses, all eyes will be on how the Suns adapt to their new environment and implement their fresh strategies. The excitement surrounding the franchise's new name and direction is palpable, and fans are hopeful that the upcoming season will yield positive results.

TL;DR

  • The Phoenix Suns have renamed their arena to Mortgage Matchup Center in a $115 million deal.
  • The team faces the Los Angeles Lakers in their preseason opener without starting center Mark Williams.
  • The Suns exercised a team option on forward Ryan Dunn, securing him for the 2026-27 season.
  • Significant changes in the front office and roster signal a desire for revitalization ahead of the new season.