Disappointment in the Desert

Official Review by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Special Correspondent

The Phoenix Suns began their NBA existence in 1968 becoming the first professional sports franchise to the city. The Suns’ first arena was the Arizona Veterans Memorial Coliseum at the Arizona State Fairgrounds. In 1992, they moved into the newly constructed America West Arena and continue to play in that facility, now called the US Airways Center.

Also sharing the US Airways Center are the Arizona Rattlers (Arena Football) and the Phoenix Mercury (WNBA). The arena hosts other entertainment events like Disney on Ice, NCAA Division Championship games, concerts, etc.

US Airways Center has a majestic grand entranceway. There is a wide open space to congregate in the entranceway with plenty of ticket windows; there are many banners and a huge video display promoting upcoming events. Do take the time to visit this entryway should you attend a game here.

Food & Beverage    4

You'll find many more food options on level one than on level two in the US Airways Arena and there are diverse options including, but not limited to: Samurai Sam's Teriyaki Grill, GreatSteak (cheesesteak sandwiches), Wetzel's Pretzels, and Brew Masters Pub.

There is, of course, traditional arena fare: hotdogs, hamburgers, nachos, pizza, popcorn, candy, etc.

Beverage options include overpriced domestic and premium beers, margaritas, and cocktails.

While I always like to go to a local eating/drinking establishment before a game; there really is no need to that with the variety of options offered at the US Airways Arena.

Atmosphere    3

There is a 'Ring of Honor' in the arena recognizing Suns players who have contributed to the success of this basketball franchise. It includes the name, number, and photo of the individual and is located on the rim between the first and second levels.

At the game I attended there was a lights out introduction. I found it too dark to see anything. I recommend being in your seat before the introduction so you don't have to flounder around in the dark trying to find your row/seat.

There is a Gorilla Green House on the second level concourse which provides activities for kids and families including a jungle gym, a playground, and video games.

I found the music way too loud. I was unable to talk with my neighbor without yelling at him.

Unlike the comfortable seats I had on the first level for the Arizona Rattlers game, the seats on the second level were cramped for this Suns game.

Neighborhood    5

The US Airways Center is in the southern part of downtown Phoenix. It is adjacent to Chase Field where the Arizona Diamondbacks play.

There are a multitude of restaurants, tourist attractions, and hotels within walking distance of the arena.

Restaurants: Hard Rock Café, Alice Cooperstown, Coach and Willie's, Kincaid's Restaurant to name a few within a couple blocks walk. This trip, I went to Coach and Willie's (just two blocks from the arena - they have a variety of menu choices and many drink specials).

Tourist Attractions: Arizona Science Center, Herberger Theater Center, Copper Square/Downtown Phoenix

Hotels: Hyatt Regency, Sheraton, Renaissance, Westin (most over $150 a night); Hotel San Carlos is a less expensive hotel in the downtown area.

If you're making a weekend of visiting the Phoenix downtown area, I would recommend staying at a downtown hotel and walking to the different restaurants, attractions, and the US Airways Center.

Fans    3

Fans were loud and supportive of their Suns. One saw lots of Suns orange gear being worn by the fan base. It was not quite a full house with attendance announced as 17,148. The fans that were in attendance were treated to a 109 - 101 win against the Detroit Pistons.

Most stayed in their seats during play (at least in the section I was in) and only left during stoppage of play or at the end of the quarter/half.

Access    2

Parking is $8 - $15 or more depending on opponent and distance from arena ($10 seems to be the norm). The concourses are congested during half time. There are plenty of restrooms with some lines during half time. My recommendation - walk down to the next restroom during half time - it may not be so populated.

One can take the Valley Metro's Light Rail to the US Airways Center. I continue to have difficulty finding information on their website.

If driving, traffic can be awful getting out of downtown Phoenix after a Suns game.

Return on Investment    0

You cannot pay me to go back to a Suns game because of how the security team addressed me this trip in March, 2012 and because of the rules around accessing an NBA game. It ruined the game day experience for me.

Do note - you cannot bring in a backpack - be aware. However, pocket books and diaper bags way larger than a 'typical' backpack are allowed. Oh yeah, at the souvenir stands in US Airways Center, they sell Suns backpacks which will, of course, not be allowed through security when entering the arena for any future games you may attend.

There is no notification of such rules (I checked the ticket, the website, and there are no signs posted outside the arena). The security personnel made me feel like I was a 'bad person' because I was carrying a backpack. Based on conversations I had with security, this appears to be an NBA rule and not a Suns rule. Fans are "wanded" as part of entry to a Suns game at the US Airways Center.

Extras    2

It was an exciting back and forth game and the Suns ended up winning.

Seeing Steve Nash - a Future Hall of Famer - is a good experience.

Final Thoughts

I have no desire to visit any NBA games in the future because of the treatment I received at the security check at the US Airways Center. It's not worth the price of a ticket to go through that hassle. And, that's a shame.