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Three-story, 55,000-square-foot YMCA to serve as a hub for youth basketball, health, wellness and education, with affordable housing units above the facility
PHOENIX – The Phoenix Suns, Phoenix Mercury and Valley of the Sun YMCA today announced plans to develop a $60 million state-of-the-art YMCA in downtown Phoenix, expanding access to programs and opportunities for families across central and south Phoenix. The development underscores Mat Ishbia’s continued commitment to investing in the Phoenix community, creating opportunities and making a meaningful difference in people’s lives. More than a hub for youth basketball, the center will connect children and families with programs focused on education, health and wellness, workforce development and food insecurity. The new facility is scheduled to open in 2029.
“Our impact as an organization extends far beyond basketball,” said Mat Ishbia, Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury owner. “It’s about making a difference in the lives of the people who make Phoenix such a special place. This is more than a building – it’s an investment in our community and its future. It’s a place where kids can discover their potential, families can build meaningful connections and everyone can come together, support one another, and grow. Because our impact won’t be measured only by what happens on the court, but by the lives we touch across the Phoenix community and the opportunities we create together.”
Through the partnership, the Phoenix Suns/Phoenix Mercury Foundation and the YMCA will bring together the power of sports, community programming and family support under one roof. The three-story, 55,000-square-foot facility will serve as a premier hub for youth basketball in Arizona, featuring three courts, including one NBA-size court and two high school-size courts. The courts will provide space for camps, clinics, tournaments and other opportunities for young athletes to develop their skills, build confidence and learn the value of teamwork.
“This partnership marks an exciting new chapter for the YMCA and our commitment to downtown Phoenix,” said Bryan Madden, President and CEO of Valley of the Sun YMCA. “Building on nearly 134 years of service, we are reimagining the downtown YMCA to create a place where youth and families can connect, grow and thrive for generations to come. We are grateful to the Phoenix Suns, Phoenix Mercury and VanTrust for their partnership and shared commitment to investing in the future of downtown Phoenix.”
Beyond the court, the center will connect children and families with resources designed to support their growth and well-being. Planned programming and services will include tutoring and internships, onsite counselors and coaches, training and career development programs, nutrition classes and a full-service cafe, creating opportunities for young people to develop both as athletes and as individuals while providing families with additional support close to home.
As part of the project, VanTrust Real Estate will develop an additional three stories above the center featuring approximately 60 units of affordable housing. Together, the planned YMCA with housing development will bring youth sports, family resources and housing opportunities together in one downtown location.
The downtown Phoenix YMCA will serve as a lasting community legacy project of NBA All-Star 2027 in Phoenix, extending the impact of All-Star beyond the weekend and into the future of the city. The Phoenix Suns/Phoenix Mercury Foundation and the YMCA will plan to host a groundbreaking ceremony during All-Star Weekend, marking the next step toward bringing this shared vision to life.
The project reflects Ishbia’s commitment to investing in Phoenix not only as a destination for world-class sports and entertainment, but as a place where children, families and neighborhoods have opportunities to thrive.
Founded in 1988, Phoenix Suns/Phoenix Mercury Foundation is the charitable organization of the Phoenix Suns (NBA), Phoenix Mercury (WNBA), and Valley Suns (NBA G League). The Foundation uses the platform of basketball to provide resources and support to communities across Arizona and contributes more than $5 million to the local community annually and impacts more than 500,000 people each year. Through strategic investments in education, youth development, and community engagement, the Foundation has granted more than $50 million to nonprofit partners since its inception, fostering long-term impact and sustainable growth for underserved communities. More than financial support, the Foundation also spearheads the organization’s involvement with the local community through player appearances, volunteer opportunities, and community events.