Report: Alex Meruelo is stepping away from Arizona Coyotes’ ownership

PHOENIX – Alex Meruelo and the Coyotes were set to bid on and secure a 110-acre plot of land to build an arena and an entertainment district in north Phoenix. However, the auction was canceled and now Meruelo has told Coyotes staff he is walking away from ownership, according to a report.

The Arizona Coyotes had an arena and entertainment district planned in north Phoenix before an auction was canceled by the Arizona State Land Department. (Rendering courtesy of Arizona Coyotes)

From Russian detention to Team USA: Brittney Griner’s third Olympic selection marks return to international stage

PHOENIX – Brittney Griner’s journey over the past two years, marked by her Russian detainment and subsequent return to the WNBA, culminates in her third Olympic Games.

Phoenix Mercury center Brittney Griner speaks at a press conference after the announcement of her third Olympic Games selection. (Photo by Grace Hand/Cronkite News)

Dynamic duo: Twin sons of NBA veteran Matt Barnes impress as Section 7 standouts with teamwork, talent

GLENDALE – Carter and Isaiah Barnes, leveraging lessons from their NBA father, excelled at the Section 7 Basketball Tournament for Crespi High School.

Isaiah Barnes takes pride in his father's mentorship, rooted in 14 years of NBA playing experience. (Photo by Shirell Washington/Cronkite News)

Family, legacy and leadership: Nate Tibbetts makes mark in WNBA debut season with Phoenix Mercury

PHOENIX – Many criticized the Phoenix Mercury for hiring Nate Tibbetts, who had no prior experience coaching in the WNBA. However, the South Dakota native is building a “family atmosphere” thanks to inspiration from his family, coaches and players.

Phoenix Mercury coach Nate Tibbetts is 'proud' and 'thankful' to follow in his father's footsteps after spending most of his career in the NBA. (Photo by Shirell Washington/Cronkite News)

Tempe’s Grass Clippings Rolling Hills shines new light on golf with nighttime play

TEMPE – Grass Clippings Rolling Hills is Arizona’s first fully lit 18-hole golf course. The nighttime experience fosters a new vibe and vibrant community.

A diverse group of players, from beginners to seasoned golfers, enjoy the inclusive atmosphere at Grass Clippings Rolling Hills. (Photo by Grace Hand/Cronkite News)

WNBA’s soaring popularity fueling fashion frenzy ahead of All-Star weekend in Phoenix

PHOENIX – The WNBA's growing popularity has led to increased attention on players' fashion choices, both on and off the court, with designers and brands collaborating with athletes to showcase their personal styles.

Kahleah Copper, Sophie Cunningham and Natasha Cloud showcase their pregame styles before the Phoenix Mercury's matchup on June 18. (Photo courtesy of Phoenix Mercury)

Pop fly and shut-eye: This fake baseball podcast is a cure for insomnia

PHOENIX – Fake baseball games as a cure for insomnia? That’s the wish of the Northwoods Sleep Baseball podcast, which hopes you’re not awake in the ninth inning.

The Northwoods Baseball Sleep Radio podcast delivers fake baseball play-by-play in dulcet tones to help listeners fall asleep. (Graphic courtesy of Northwoods Baseball Sleep Radio)

Phoenix Mercury’s Diana Taurasi reveals secret battle with eczema, teams up to raise awareness

PHOENIX – For the first time, Diana Taurasi is opening up about her battle with moderate-to-severe eczema. The Mercury guard discusses moments of vulnerability, treatments and partnering with a pharmaceutical company to raise awareness about the condition.

Severe exczema is a skin condition that is caused by an overactive immune system and can cause dry, itchy and red skin. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

Back on track: Phoenix Rising gaining momentum after slow start following USL Championship

PHOENIX – The Rising were off to a slow start after their championship season. Offseason moves and strong support at home have helped the club get back on track.


20-run win for Republicans in Congressional Baseball Game with Arizona lawmakers in supporting roles

WASHINGTON – Republicans defeated Democrats, 31-11, in the Congressional Baseball Game, an annual charity event, extending their winning streak with a blowout at Nationals Park.

Reps. Juan Ciscomani, left, and Greg Stanton discuss the purpose of the Congressional Baseball Game at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C., on June 12, 2024. (Photo by Morgan Kubasko/Cronkite News)

From North Philly to Paris: Kahleah Copper’s road to 2024 Olympics a journey of tears, setbacks and success

PHOENIX – Mercury guard Kahleah Copper was selected to the Olympic roster for the first time. The trials she endured leading up to receiving the call makes her appreciate this achievement much more.

Averaging 24 points for the Phoenix Mercury, Kahleah Copper’s outstanding season performance underscores her readiness for the 2024 Olympics. (Photo by Shirell Washington/Cronkite News)

Give me an R! Snubbed by Olympics again, cheerleading continues quest for respect

PHOENIX – Despite the hours, risk of injuries and athleticism required, cheerleading is still searching for respect as it seeks to find a place in a future Olympics.

More and more cheer teams are coed, just like the University of Western Ontario’s cheer team. Despite the athleticism involved, cheerleading is still struggling to be accepted as a sport. (Photo courtesy of David-Lee Tracey).