The Suns have played in Phoenix since their first season in 1968, and in only two arenas: the Arizona Veterans Memorial Coliseum at the State Fairgrounds until 1992, then the downtown arena that opened as America West Arena and is now Mortgage Matchup Center.
Here are both homes in order, with the years the Suns played there, what made each one matter and what stands there today. Each arena with a ThrillZing guide links to it.
Every Suns Arena, 1968 to Today
- Phoenix
- 1968–1992
Arizona Veterans Memorial Coliseum
A 1965 arena at the State Fairgrounds with a saddle-shaped cable roof, nicknamed the Madhouse on McDowell. It hosted the 1975 All-Star Game and games of the 1976 Finals. The last Suns game here was in May 1992.
Today: Still standing at the Arizona State Fairgrounds, used for roller derby and other events
- 1992–presentCurrent home
Opened downtown in 1992 as America West Arena, the Purple Palace, and hosted the 1993 and 2021 Finals. Later US Airways Center, Talking Stick Resort Arena and Footprint Center; renamed in October 2025.
Visiting guide →
Suns Arena FAQ
Where did the Suns play before their downtown arena?
At the Arizona Veterans Memorial Coliseum on McDowell Road, from 1968 to 1992. Fans and media called it the Madhouse on McDowell, a nickname Lakers broadcaster Chick Hearn gave it during the 1970 playoffs. The Suns’ last game there was a double-overtime playoff loss to Portland on May 11, 1992.
How many arenas have the Suns had?
Two. The current arena has had many names, though: America West Arena, US Airways Center, Talking Stick Resort Arena, Phoenix Suns Arena, Footprint Center, PHX Arena and, since October 2, 2025, Mortgage Matchup Center.
Why did the Suns move downtown?
Owner Jerry Colangelo wanted a new arena to replace the Coliseum. Construction began on August 1, 1990, the arena opened on June 6, 1992, at a cost of $89 million, and the Suns reached the NBA Finals in their first season there. A major renovation, approved by the city in 2019, was completed in 2021.
Is the Veterans Memorial Coliseum still standing?
Yes. The 14,870-seat arena still stands at the Arizona State Fairgrounds, run by the state fair board, and is known for its saddle-shaped, cable-supported roof. Its tenants have included minor league hockey teams, indoor soccer and roller derby.
Where do the Suns play now?
At Mortgage Matchup Center in downtown Phoenix, which seats 17,071 for basketball and is shared with the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury. It hosted the 1993 and 2021 NBA Finals and was known as Footprint Center from 2021 to 2025.