🏀 NBA All-Star Game Coming to Phoenix: What It Means for the Valley
New Name, Same Big Stage
The NBA All-Star Game is coming back to the Valley—but with a twist. Phoenix will host the 2027 NBA All-Star Weekend at the newly rebranded PHX Arena. It will mark the fourth time the city has hosted the event, but this edition promises to be the most impactful yet.
The Big Reveal
On March 6, 2024, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver announced the selection of Phoenix as the 2027 host city alongside Suns owner Mat Ishbia and Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs. “Phoenix is ready to show the world the future of basketball, entertainment, and community,” Ishbia said.
With previous All-Star Games held in Phoenix in 1975, 1995, and 2009, the Valley already has a storied history of hosting the league’s biggest weekend. But this time, the stakes are higher. Phoenix has undergone a transformation over the last decade, rapidly becoming one of the most dynamic, fastest-growing cities in America.
The event will be centered at the newly renamed PHX Arena, formerly Footprint Center, which serves as home to the Phoenix Suns, Mercury, and Rattlers. The arena’s rebrand reflects a return to local identity after the naming rights contract with Footprint expired in 2025.
A Booming Downtown and NBA-Ready Energy
Downtown Phoenix’s resurgence will be on full display. The city now boasts high-end hotels like the Kimpton Palomar and the FOUND:RE, top-tier culinary spots like Pizzeria Bianco and Matt’s Big Breakfast, and nightlife destinations stretching from Roosevelt Row to the Warehouse District.
During All-Star Weekend, PHX Arena and the surrounding blocks will be transformed into a sports-and-culture playground. Live broadcasts, sneaker pop-ups, player meet-and-greets, and celebrity-hosted events will flood the area.
"Phoenix is becoming a lifestyle city, not just a stopover," says Keisha Randall, a local entrepreneur and sneaker boutique owner. "This All-Star Game puts us in the same conversation as Chicago, New York, and L.A."
Economic Game Changer
According to city economists and tourism officials, the 2027 NBA All-Star Weekend could inject up to $175 million into the local economy. That includes hotel bookings, restaurant and bar revenue, shopping, transportation, and wages from the thousands of temporary jobs created to support the event.
The Phoenix Convention Center will host the NBA Fan Fest, while Valley Metro is expected to increase light rail frequency to handle the spike in visitors. Security, traffic flow, and city services will receive funding boosts to ensure a safe, seamless experience for both tourists and residents.
Community Engagement & Local Talent
The Suns organization and the NBA plan to collaborate on several community outreach initiatives in the lead-up to 2027, including:
Renovation of local basketball courts
Youth mentorship programs with current and former NBA/WNBA players
Business grants for Black and minority-owned businesses
Art installations and murals from local artists celebrating basketball culture
“We want to leave a legacy,” said Valerie Blackwood, VP of Community Affairs for the Suns. “This isn’t just a game—it’s an opportunity to empower our neighborhoods.”
What to Expect During All-Star Weekend
Though details will be released closer to the date, fans can anticipate a weekend packed with marquee moments:
All-Star Saturday Night: Dunk Contest, 3-Point Shootout, Skills Challenge
Rising Stars Challenge: Showcasing the league’s young talent
NBA Crossover: An interactive experience blending music, fashion, tech, and hoops
Celebrity All-Star Game: Bringing athletes, musicians, and entertainers together
NBA Legends Brunch and Commissioner’s Awards
Surprise pop-ups from brands like Nike, Jordan, Adidas, and local designers
Downtown block parties, after-hours lounges, and private events across the Valley
The PHX Arena Rebrand
The arena rebranding signals more than just a name change. It’s a statement of identity. The decision to revert to PHX Arena honors the city's roots and its rise as a basketball and cultural hub. The arena will undergo tech and hospitality upgrades ahead of 2027, including improved seating, LED enhancements, and an upgraded court-level hospitality suite.
According to Mat Ishbia, the updates are about more than looks. “We’re investing in the fan experience—from the seats to the scoreboard to the soul of the building.”
A Moment That Lasts Beyond the Weekend
Hosting the 2027 NBA All-Star Game isn’t just a win for Phoenix sports. It’s a testament to the city’s growing relevance on the national stage—in sports, business, and lifestyle. For locals, it’s a source of pride. For visitors, it will be a revelation.
As the countdown to tip-off begins, one thing is clear: Phoenix isn’t just hosting All-Star Weekend. It’s owning it.
