Suns, Mercury Unveil Plan for Largest Outdoor Videoboard for NBA, WNBA Arena
You’ll notice something new in the fall while driving down Jefferson Street in downtown Phoenix, with the home of the Phoenix Suns and Mercury soon to sport the largest outdoor screen for a NBA or WNBA arena.
The display is on the northwest corner of Mortgage Matchup Center, the plaza that has long been the primary entrance to the arena. This was previously a large wall of windows to see into the pavilion portion of the arena that was redone in the renovations. That space includes a large bar, a few big ribbon screens and more. The screen is 41 feet tall and 226 feet wide, and the way in which it is designed will still allow natural light to come into the pavilion.
“We want everyone who visits Mortgage Matchup Center to have a memorable experience, and that starts the moment they arrive,” owner Mat Ishbia said in a press release. “We’re creating a place where fans can come together for the biggest moments in sports and entertainment, and our new LED display gives us a powerful new platform to celebrate the Suns and Mercury, connect with our community and engage with our fans.”
Oregon State Begins Construction on New $25M Athletics Facility
Oregon State University began building in July a 15,000-sq.-ft. sports that will support its softball, men's and women's soccer, women's cross country and women track and field program.
Fortis Construction is serving as construction manager/general contractor.
University supporters have made philanthropic commitments totaling $25 million to construct a new facility that will support 150 student-athletes.
This significant investment underscores the momentum for the future of OSU Athletics, alongside the $48 million Valley Challenge for Student-Athletes, which strengthens Oregon State's revenue-sharing opportunities.
The building initiative, funded entirely by donors to the OSU Foundation, was launched with an $11 million commitment by an anonymous donor. Ten donor households — eight with gifts of more than $1 million each and two with gifts of $500,000 – completed the funding for the project.
Anderson County Sets Ribbon Cutting for New Facilities
The project features the development of eight pickleball courts, providing residents with a premier destination for one of the fastest-growing sports. The new courts include dedicated lighting for evening play and spectator seating to accommodate tournaments, league play, and recreational matches.
In addition to the pickleball courts, the project includes several significant park enhancements designed to improve the visitor experience and support future growth.
“These improvements reflect Anderson County’s commitment to investing in quality recreational facilities that enhance the quality of life for our residents. Dolly Cooper Park has long been a gathering place for families, and these upgrades ensure it will continue serving our growing community for years to come,” said Jimmy Davis, Anderson County Councilman, District 6.
- Construction of eight lighted pickleball courts with spectator seating.
- Installation of new parking lot lighting to improve safety and extend park usability.
- Construction of a new four-stall restroom facility.
- New ADA-accessible sidewalks and pedestrian connections linking parking areas, courts, and other park amenities.
- Comprehensive utility infrastructure upgrades to support the new facilities and accommodate future park expansion.
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