Banner Health has announced a $1 million donation from the Phoenix Suns, Phoenix Mercury, and their foundation to the Banner Health Foundation. This contribution is aimed at supporting young athletes in the Valley by providing professional-level training, testing, and equipment.
The announcement was made during a ceremony at Banner Sports Medicine Scottsdale’s High Performance Center. During this event, the basketball court was officially named the Phoenix Suns Phoenix Mercury Basketball Court in recognition of the donation.
The funds will cover 2,000 physicals, 1,000 concussion tests, and 100 injury risk assessments for students in metropolitan Phoenix who lack financial resources. Additionally, part of the donation will go to the Technology, Equipment & Innovation Fund to ensure access to advanced equipment and technology.
Andy Petersen, president and CEO of the Banner Health Foundation, stated: “This generous gift from the Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury allows us to expand access to vital sports medicine services for young athletes who need them most.” He emphasized that it provides athletes with access to care and training opportunities essential for pursuing their athletic dreams safely.
A portion of the funds will also support a youth basketball combine at the High Performance Center. This event will offer performance evaluations and personalized injury prevention tips for 100 athletes aged 12 to 18. Participants will receive guidance from various experts at Banner Sports Medicine.
Josh Bartelstein, CEO of the Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury, remarked: “This gift is about giving every young athlete the chance to train, grow, and compete at the highest level.”
Opened in May 2023, Banner Sports Medicine Scottsdale offers comprehensive sports medicine services including orthopedic surgery and concussion management. The facility includes a large indoor space and an outdoor training area designed for real-time athletic assessment.
Banner Health operates as one of the largest nonprofit health care systems in the U.S., with multiple facilities across several states. The organization provides a wide range of health services including hospitals, academic medicine divisions, cancer centers in partnership with MD Anderson Cancer Center, insurance divisions, outpatient centers, and more.
The Banner Health Foundation was established in 2001 to manage charitable contributions supporting patient care programs across Arizona and Wyoming. More information can be found on their website.
