Phoenix Suns
The National Basketball Association’s (NBA) Phoenix Suns and the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) Phoenix Mercury have signed a new arena naming rights deal with United Wholesale Mortgage (UWM).
Contract:
- Venue to be renamed as Mortgage Matchup Center
- Ten-year agreement is worth nearly US$115 million
- Mortgage Matchup also becomes official mortgage partner of the Suns, Mercury and for the G-League outfit Valley Suns
- Teams to work on fan awareness initiatives
Context:
The Suns and Mercury said this is among the largest arena naming rights deals in the NBA and the WNBA. Suns and Mercury owner Mat Ishbia is also the president and chief executive of UWM, having assumed the role in 2013.
According to Arizona Sports, there were four parties bidding for the venue naming rights. The arena was previously known as Footprint Center before the environmental technology company’s deal was downgraded earlier this year. In the interim, the building was referred to as PHX Arena.
Located in downtown Phoenix the Mortgage Matchup Center will also host the 2026 National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) Women’s Final Four and the 2027 NBA All-Star Game. It welcome more than two million attendees each year to more than 100 sports and entertainment events held annually.
Comment:
“I’m extremely excited about this partnership as it represents two organisations that have natural alignment and a shared commitment to excellence,” said Ishbia. “The Phoenix Suns and Mercury have a diverse, passionate and engaged fan base in sports that will allow us to make strong connections between mortgage brokers and consumers.”
“Our arena hosts more than basketball games and entertainment events — it represents a sense of belonging, community and moments fans carry with them forever,” said Josh Bartelstein, Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury chief executive.
“That’s exactly why Mortgage Matchup is the perfect partner. Just as they help families achieve the dream of homeownership through local community-focused mortgage brokers, together we’ll create a home for unforgettable memories at Mortgage Matchup Center.”
Coming next:
Mortgage Matchup Center will host game three of the WNBA Finals on 8th October, with the Mercury facing off against the Las Vegas Aces in the series.
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