Mullett Arena

Nestled in the heart of Arizona State University in Tempe, Mullett Arena stands as a beacon of excitement and community spirit. This state-of-the-art indoor multipurpose arena, with its 5,000-seat capacity, is not just a sports venue but a hub of diverse activities and events that cater to a wide range of interests. Whether you're a die-hard hockey fan, a gymnastics enthusiast, or someone who enjoys a good volleyball match, Mullett Arena has something for everyone.

A Brief History of Mullett Arena

The story of Mullett Arena began in November 2020 when the Arizona Board of Regents' finance committee approved plans for a new on-campus multipurpose arena. This modern facility was designed to replace the aging Oceanside Ice Arena, which had long served as the home for the Sun Devils men's hockey team. The project was not just about creating a new home for hockey; it was about building a versatile venue that could host various sports and community events.

The arena was initially known as the ASU Multi-Purpose Arena. However, on August 23, 2022, Arizona State University unveiled its new name: Mullett Arena, in honor of Donald and Barbara Mullett, two generous benefactors of the university. The facility opened its doors to the public in October 2022 and quickly became a central part of the university's athletic and community life.

Home to Multiple Sports Teams

Mullett Arena is the proud home of several of ASU's sports teams, including men's and women's ice hockey, women's gymnastics, women's volleyball, and men's wrestling. Each team brings its unique energy and excitement to the arena, making it a lively and dynamic place throughout the year.

One of the most significant moments in the arena's early history was the first-ever game played by the Sun Devils men's hockey team on October 14, 2022. The team faced off against the Colgate Raiders, and the atmosphere was electric. Josh Doan, the son of former Coyote Shane Doan, scored the first goal in the arena's history, leading the Sun Devils to a 2-0 victory.

Temporary Home of the Arizona Coyotes

In a surprising turn of events, Mullett Arena also became the temporary home of the NHL's Arizona Coyotes. With their lease at Gila River Arena expiring, the Coyotes needed a new venue, and ASU's state-of-the-art facility was the perfect fit. The Coyotes signed a three-year agreement to play their home games at Mullett Arena, starting with the 2022-23 NHL season.

The Coyotes' first game at Mullett Arena took place on October 28, 2022, against the Winnipeg Jets. The game was a sellout, with 4,600 fans packing the arena to witness the historic event. Although the Coyotes lost 3-2 in overtime, the game was a memorable start to their tenure at Mullett Arena.

The Coyotes' time at Mullett Arena was marked by several significant moments, including their final game on April 17, 2024, against the Edmonton Oilers. Fans dressed in white for a final Whiteout, a cherished playoff tradition. The Coyotes won the game 5-2, with Sean Durzi scoring the last goal at the arena. Following this game, the Coyotes suspended operations for five years, with many of their assets moving to Utah to form a new hockey club.

The Mountain America Community Iceplex

Adjacent to Mullett Arena is the Mountain America Community Iceplex, a facility that further enhances the arena's offerings. The Iceplex, named through a multi-year partnership with Mountain America Credit Union, features a full hockey pro shop and a concession stand offering hot and cold refreshments. It serves as a practice facility for the Coyotes and hosts various community hockey events.

During the Coyotes' early games at Mullett Arena, the visiting teams used temporary locker room accommodations within the Iceplex. This arrangement was necessary while construction of the NHL-standard annex was completed. The annex, finished in December 2022, provided top-notch training and locker room facilities for the Coyotes during their stay at Mullett Arena.

Looking Ahead

Mullett Arena's future looks bright, with plans already in place to host the Valley Suns, the NBA G League affiliate of the Phoenix Suns, starting with the 2024-25 G League season. This addition will bring even more excitement and diversity to the arena's schedule, ensuring that it remains a vibrant part of the ASU and Tempe communities.

In conclusion, Mullett Arena is more than just a sports venue; it's a cornerstone of community engagement and athletic excellence. Whether you're cheering on the Sun Devils, watching an NHL game, or enjoying a community event, Mullett Arena offers an unforgettable experience for all who visit. So, next time you're in Tempe, make sure to stop by and see what all the buzz is about!