Phoenix Daily: All-Star Spotlight, Deadly Crash, and Jobs for Summer

Good morning, Phoenix. Here’s a quick look at what’s making news around the Valley today.

NBA All-Star Weekend Coming to Downtown in 2027

Phoenix is now officially on the clock to host the 76th NBA All-Star Game on February 21, 2027, at the newly renamed Mortgage Matchup Center in downtown. League officials confirmed the date over All-Star Weekend in California, with a ceremonial handoff between team owners.

The game will cap a full weekend of events, including the three-point contest and slam dunk competition the night before. It will be the fourth time Phoenix has welcomed the league’s midseason showcase, and city leaders are already touting the tourism and economic boost expected from fans traveling in for the festivities.

Local businesses near the arena are preparing for what could be one of the biggest sports weekends the city has seen since the last time it hosted the event in 2009.

74-Year-Old Man Killed in Central Phoenix Crash

Police are investigating a deadly collision that claimed the life of a 74-year-old man late Saturday near 16th Street and Pinchot Avenue. Investigators say the man was crossing mid-block around 11 p.m. when he was struck by a northbound vehicle.

The driver stayed at the scene and impairment is not currently suspected, according to early reports. The victim later died at the hospital. Detectives will review evidence before deciding whether any charges are filed.

The crash adds to an ongoing concern about pedestrian safety in the city and statewide, where recent transportation data show pedestrian-involved collisions remain stubbornly high.

City Hiring Hundreds of Lifeguards for Pool Season

Looking ahead to hotter days, Phoenix is ramping up hiring for more than 200 lifeguard positions for the 2026 pool season. City officials say they want applicants in place early so neighborhood pools can open on schedule and operate with full staffing.

The jobs are open to teens and adults who can complete required training and certification. City leaders are framing the push as both a summer job opportunity and a key part of keeping kids and families safe at public pools across Phoenix.

What Else to Know

Forecasters say Presidents Day brought clouds, breezy conditions, and a slight chance of rain to parts of the Valley, a welcome change in what has been an unusually dry winter for much of Arizona.

Sources

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