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Phoenix, Arizona - Mat Ishbia's ownership tenure with the Phoenix Suns and Mercury is proving to be a game-changer as the WNBA All-Star Game dazzles a packed Footprint Center in Phoenix. The $100 million state-of-the-art women's practice facility, unveiled ahead of schedule, stands as a testament to Ishbia's commitment to elevating the basketball scene in Phoenix.

With the NBA All-Star Game secured for 2027, Ishbia's vision of making Phoenix a basketball destination is coming to fruition. The opening of the cutting-edge practice facility, located adjacent to the bustling downtown arena, has added a new layer of excitement to the city's basketball landscape. Featuring courts dedicated to legendary star Diana Taurasi, the facility marks a significant milestone in Ishbia's ownership journey, spanning just 18 months.

The grand debut of the practice facility and the WNBA All-Star Game follows closely on the heels of other basketball events in the area, including the recent staging of the NCAA men's basketball Final Four. Additionally, with the women's Final Four slated for 2025 at Footprint, Phoenix is solidifying its standing as a hub for top-tier basketball events.

Noteworthy about the upcoming WNBA All-Star Game is the unique clash between the All-Stars and the U.S. Women's Olympic team as they prepare for the Paris Olympics. Rising WNBA stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese will showcase their talent for the All-Stars, while established names like Taurasi, Griner, and Copper will shine for the U.S. Olympians in a nationally televised spectacle on ABC.

This spectacle follows a recent sellout streak in Phoenix, with the WNBA attracting crowds upwards of 17,000 and the Suns maintaining a remarkable 121-game sellout streak, a testament to the city's basketball fervor.

Ishbia's dedicated investments in the Suns and Mercury, including the significant purchase of the practice facility, underscore his commitment to driving progress in the women's basketball domain. Taurasi, a stalwart of the league, acknowledges the transformative impact Ishbia has had on the franchise's facilities, moving them to NBA-caliber standards.

As she reminisces about the evolution of basketball facilities, Taurasi recognizes the strides Ishbia has made, noting his dedication to pushing boundaries and setting new standards in the sport. Ishbia's approach has not gone unnoticed, with players like Clark applauding his investment in the women's ownership sphere.

Reflecting on the journey, Ishbia remains resolute in his commitment to the long-term success of the Suns and Mercury, emphasizing his dedication to continually evolve and invest in both the basketball and community aspects.

Finally, as the rave reviews pour in from both players and fans, Ishbia's efforts to propel the Phoenix basketball empire to new heights are earning him a reputation as an owner who prioritizes excellence. Amidst accolades from the basketball community, Ishbia's ownership journey in Phoenix continues to set a high standard, promising a bright future for the Suns, Mercury, and basketball in the city.