Phoenix

blue

Get smarter, faster on what matters in Phoenix with Jeremy Duda and Jessica Boehm.

Axios Phoenix

Standard

Phoenix Members

Membership

Phoenix Alerts

Alert

Axios Phoenix Partners

Axios Phoenix Thought Bubble

Thought Bubble

National

Attorney General Pam Bondi pushed out

Her exit underscores building scrutiny over the DOJ's handling of the Epstein files.

Politics & Policy

Attorney General <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Pam Bondi" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/05/pam-bondi-impeach-democrat-epstein-files-doj-ag" data-vars-content-id="0355930b-4a59-4c6d-bc7c-868ed7459bd9" data-vars-headline="Attorney General Pam Bondi pushed out" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/05/pam-bondi-impeach-democrat-epstein-files-doj-ag" target="_self">Pam Bondi</a> is leaving the Department of Justice, President Trump announced on Truth Social Thursday.The big picture: Bondi led the unsuccessful attempts to prosecute Trump&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="political foes" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/epstein-files" data-vars-content-id="0355930b-4a59-4c6d-bc7c-868ed7459bd9" data-vars-headline="Attorney General Pam Bondi pushed out" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/epstein-files" target="_self">political foes</a> and oversaw <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the release of files " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/11/bondi-doj-congress-epstein-lying" data-vars-content-id="0355930b-4a59-4c6d-bc7c-868ed7459bd9" data-vars-headline="Attorney General Pam Bondi pushed out" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/11/bondi-doj-congress-epstein-lying" target="_self">the release of files </a>about deceased sex offender <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Jeffrey Epstein" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/epstein-files" data-vars-content-id="0355930b-4a59-4c6d-bc7c-868ed7459bd9" data-vars-headline="Attorney General Pam Bondi pushed out" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/epstein-files" target="_self">Jeffrey Epstein</a>, which has been a political liability for the president.

U.S. bombs Iran's civilian infrastructure for first time after "Stone Ages" threat

U.S. bombs Iranian bridge after Trump's "Stone Ages" threat

"The biggest bridge in Iran comes tumbling down, never to be used again — Much more to follow!"

World

The U.S. military on Thursday attacked major civilian infrastructure in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Iran" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" data-vars-content-id="e9e5f19f-cfb6-46cc-8b39-8d0bb2a31467" data-vars-headline="U.S. bombs Iran&#x27;s civilian infrastructure for first time after &quot;Stone Ages&quot; threat" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" target="_self">Iran</a> for the first time, hours after President <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="e9e5f19f-cfb6-46cc-8b39-8d0bb2a31467" data-vars-headline="U.S. bombs Iran&#x27;s civilian infrastructure for first time after &quot;Stone Ages&quot; threat" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump</a> threatened in a prime-time address to bomb the country <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="&quot;back to the Stone Ages.&quot;" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/02/trump-bomb-iran-stone-ages-power-plants" data-vars-content-id="e9e5f19f-cfb6-46cc-8b39-8d0bb2a31467" data-vars-headline="U.S. bombs Iran&#x27;s civilian infrastructure for first time after &quot;Stone Ages&quot; threat" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/02/trump-bomb-iran-stone-ages-power-plants" target="_self">&quot;back to the Stone Ages.&quot;</a>Why it matters: The attack on the B-1 bridge near Tehran signals a widening of the U.S. military&#x27;s targets and could be a first step toward attacks on energy, water and transportation infrastructure.

Trump administration appeals Anthropic ruling

The appeal escalates a high-stakes fight that could reshape how the government works with AI companies.

Technology

The Trump administration is appealing a federal judge&#x27;s order <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="temporarily" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/26/judge-temporarily-blocks-pentagon-ban-anthropic" data-vars-content-id="e2acd1e0-5573-4256-b75e-04fe371a6431" data-vars-headline="Trump administration appeals Anthropic ruling" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/26/judge-temporarily-blocks-pentagon-ban-anthropic" target="_self">temporarily</a> blocking the Pentagon&#x27;s ban on Anthropic, per a filing on Thursday.Why it matters: The appeal escalates a high-stakes fight that could reshape how the government works with <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="AI" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/technology/automation-and-ai" data-vars-content-id="e2acd1e0-5573-4256-b75e-04fe371a6431" data-vars-headline="Trump administration appeals Anthropic ruling" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/technology/automation-and-ai" target="_self">AI</a> companies.

Lawmakers vow to force Pam Bondi to testify despite ouster

"My subpoena still stands," Republican Rep. Nancy Mace told Axios.

Members of the House Oversight Committee said Thursday they will still fight to enforce their panel&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="subpoena of Pam Bondi" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/19/pam-bondi-impeach-epstein-democrats-briefing" data-vars-content-id="a5b03718-17b3-46eb-8ed0-b3c7b6fcf401" data-vars-headline="Lawmakers vow to force Pam Bondi to testify despite ouster" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/19/pam-bondi-impeach-epstein-democrats-briefing" target="_self">subpoena of Pam Bondi</a> after her removal as attorney general.Why it matters: Bondi has been a target of congressional investigators in both parties over how she has handled the release of the Justice Department&#x27;s files on convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Washington D.C.

Trump's White House ballroom gets design approval

An ongoing legal case has halted construction on the site.

President <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump&#x27;s ballroom project" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/04/01/despite-construction-setback-trumps-ballroom-design-still-expected-to-win-approval" data-vars-content-id="78fc6532-27ce-4c76-8c4c-6b2820529dde" data-vars-headline="Trump&#x27;s White House ballroom gets design approval" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/04/01/despite-construction-setback-trumps-ballroom-design-still-expected-to-win-approval" target="_self">Trump&#x27;s ballroom project</a> won design approval on Thursday, even though an ongoing legal case has <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="halted construction" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/31/trump-ballroom-plans-judge-order" data-vars-content-id="78fc6532-27ce-4c76-8c4c-6b2820529dde" data-vars-headline="Trump&#x27;s White House ballroom gets design approval" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/31/trump-ballroom-plans-judge-order" target="_self">halted construction</a> on the site.Why it matters: The National Capital Planning Commission&#x27;s sign-off won&#x27;t restart construction, but it clears a final procedural hurdle for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="78fc6532-27ce-4c76-8c4c-6b2820529dde" data-vars-headline="Trump&#x27;s White House ballroom gets design approval" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump&#x27;s</a> fast-tracked, $400 million plans for transforming the White House.

Thousands expected at Phoenix No Kings protests Saturday

More than two dozen Valley protests are planned as part of a nationwide day of action.

News

More than two dozen Valley demonstrations are planned for Saturday&#x27;s nationwide <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="No Kings protest against President Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/24/bruce-springsteen-joan-baez-no-kings-twin-cities" data-vars-content-id="ba1f8b4f-3488-4916-80cb-8607186592f5" data-vars-headline="Thousands expected at Phoenix No Kings protests Saturday" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/24/bruce-springsteen-joan-baez-no-kings-twin-cities" target="_self">No Kings protest against President Trump</a>.Why it matters: Thousands are expected to take to the streets to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="denounce ICE&#x27;s expected enforcement ramp-up in Phoenix" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/03/25/phoenix-council-city-property-ice-immigration-prohibition" data-vars-content-id="ba1f8b4f-3488-4916-80cb-8607186592f5" data-vars-headline="Thousands expected at Phoenix No Kings protests Saturday" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/03/25/phoenix-council-city-property-ice-immigration-prohibition" target="_self">denounce ICE&#x27;s expected enforcement ramp-up in Phoenix</a>, the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Iran war" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/25/iran-war-polls-americans-skeptical" data-vars-content-id="ba1f8b4f-3488-4916-80cb-8607186592f5" data-vars-headline="Thousands expected at Phoenix No Kings protests Saturday" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/25/iran-war-polls-americans-skeptical" target="_self">Iran war</a> and other Trump priorities.

Shipping container housing opens for homeless seniors

The complex has 40 transitional housing units, and residents will have access to case managers and social services.

A newly opened project in Phoenix offers transitional housing made from shipping containers for older adults who are experiencing homelessness.State of play: City officials and others gathered Wednesday morning for the opening of Senior Bridge, which provides 40 individual transitional housing units for homeless seniors at 28th and Van Buren streets.

Charles Barkley blimp returns to Phoenix skies

The Charles Barkley blimp is back as Final Four week begins.

Keep an eye on the sky for a rare migratory sighting: The 128-foot Charles Barkley blimp is back in Phoenix for the first time in two years.Why it matters: We&#x27;ve missed Soar Charles (also called: Charles Flightly, The Up Chuck, Air Chuck One and The Ugly Chuckling).

Krav Mama: A self-defense class designed for new moms

A Tempe instructor created a postpartum workout where moms train with their babies.

<figure><img alt="A gif of a woman holding a baby and kicking a heavy bag in a gym." height="600" id="671d5f45-200d-469c-8060-0a3462c8e142" src="https://images.axios.com/ZstKyMUT41Amr56A_Usmnb3bB_w=/2026/03/26/1774548998563.gif" width="800"/><figcaption>Jessica and her daughter test out Krav Mama. Photo: Courtesy of EVKM Self Defense &amp; Fitness</figcaption></figure>Tempe Krav Maga instructor and new mom Sara Ullenbruch-Zarezadeh has developed a postpartum version of the popular Israeli self-defense training. <ul><li>She&#x27;s calling it Krav Mama.</li></ul>Why it matters: Protecting yourself looks different when you have a baby in your arms or a tot by your side.

Chicago treat: Ice cream by the slice coming to Arizona

The Original Rainbow Cone, a Chicago institution, is bringing its sliced ice cream to the Valley.

Cool off with a few slices of ice cream, courtesy of a Chicago institution that&#x27;s coming to the Valley.State of play: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Original Rainbow Cone" data-vars-click-url="https://rainbowcone.com/" data-vars-content-id="41bba44a-0c66-4a73-9e4f-873aef1b32c0" data-vars-headline="Chicago treat: Ice cream by the slice coming to Arizona" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://rainbowcone.com/" target="_blank">Original Rainbow Cone</a> will open its first Arizona location March 30 in Surprise.

Fish Friday: 8 reader-favorite seafood spots in the Valley

From fish tacos to lobster rolls, here are 8 reader-loved seafood spots.

It&#x27;s fish Friday and we&#x27;ve got dinner suggestions.Zoom in: Thanks to the readers who submitted their favorite seafood spots in the Valley.

Mansion with NBA court tops Phoenix Zillow views

The estate has hosted Kobe Bryand and Chris Paul and comes with 290 pairs of Air Jordans.

Last year&#x27;s most popular <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Valley Zillow listing" data-vars-click-url="https://www.zillow.com/learn/most-popular-homes/" data-vars-content-id="d2908ce3-c51d-422a-b720-b6151e1ff2ee" data-vars-headline="Mansion with NBA court tops Phoenix Zillow views" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.zillow.com/learn/most-popular-homes/" target="_blank">Valley Zillow listing</a> is a 21,000-square-foot mansion with an underground regulation-sized basketball court that&#x27;s entertained the likes of NBA superstars Kobe Bryant, Chris Paul and Damian Lillard.The big picture: The seven-room, 17-bathroom home in far-north Scottsdale&#x27;s Prado Estates community was built by Brett and Susie Hardt in 2017, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Arizona Republic" data-vars-click-url="https://www.azcentral.com/story/money/real-estate/cool-home/2019/08/29/hoops-heaven-scottsdale-family-dream-home-brett-hardt/2092313001/" data-vars-content-id="d2908ce3-c51d-422a-b720-b6151e1ff2ee" data-vars-headline="Mansion with NBA court tops Phoenix Zillow views" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.azcentral.com/story/money/real-estate/cool-home/2019/08/29/hoops-heaven-scottsdale-family-dream-home-brett-hardt/2092313001/" target="_blank">The Arizona Republic</a> reported.

Wildcats make long-awaited return to Final Four

UofA will play fellow No. 1 seed Michigan after beating Purdue on Saturday.

It&#x27;s been a long time coming, but the Arizona Wildcats are back in the Final Four.Why it matters: It&#x27;s their first appearance since 2001.

Arizona Wildcats advance to Sweet 16 with win over Utah State

The top-seeded Wildcats advance to the Sweet 16 after fending off a persistent Utah State team.

The top-seeded Arizona Wildcats are headed to their third straight Sweet 16 after dispatching Utah State in the second round of the NCAA tournament.State of play: No. 1 seed UofA beat the No. 9 seed Aggies 78-66 in San Diego on Sunday.

Protecting your IP in the age of generative AI

Consumer AI tools may be quietly exposing your business's IP and trade secrets.

Partners

Phoenix companies are racing to adopt generative AI, but many haven&#x27;t considered how everyday AI use can quietly erode the intellectual property that defines their competitive edge.Why it&#x27;s important: For most Arizona companies, intellectual property — from proprietary formulas to source code to product roadmaps — is often what differentiates a company in the market.<ul><li>When employees input sensitive details into AI systems, especially consumer-grade tools, those actions may later be scrutinized in trade secret disputes or patent filings.</li></ul>

Sheraton Phoenix Crescent to become "attainable luxury" apartments

Metrocenter's transformation is fueling plans to turn a shuttered luxury hotel into apartments.

A swanky, landmark hotel in north Phoenix that&#x27;s been shuttered for several years will get new life as &quot;attainable luxury&quot; apartments near the planned <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Metrocenter mall redevelopment" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2024/11/19/metrocenter-demolition-metropolitan-mall-redevelopment" data-vars-content-id="99633901-acd1-4e00-a1b5-e3d391d02865" data-vars-headline="Sheraton Phoenix Crescent to become &quot;attainable luxury&quot; apartments" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2024/11/19/metrocenter-demolition-metropolitan-mall-redevelopment" target="_self">Metrocenter mall redevelopment</a>.Why it matters: That area of north Phoenix is in the midst of a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="massive transformation" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2022/11/21/phoenix-metrocenter-mall-billion-dollar-redevelopment" data-vars-content-id="99633901-acd1-4e00-a1b5-e3d391d02865" data-vars-headline="Sheraton Phoenix Crescent to become &quot;attainable luxury&quot; apartments" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2022/11/21/phoenix-metrocenter-mall-billion-dollar-redevelopment" target="_self">massive transformation</a> and the redevelopment of the Sheraton Phoenix Crescent will add to the area&#x27;s renewal.

How Trump's mail voting order could affect Arizona voters

Arizona officials will challenge a Trump order affecting how mail ballots are sent.

Arizona is again in the crosshairs of President Trump&#x27;s mission to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="nationalize elections" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/08/save-america-act-trump-nationalize-elections" data-vars-content-id="107a3dd6-dff7-455f-895f-cff4673c604c" data-vars-headline="How Trump&#x27;s mail voting order could affect Arizona voters" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/08/save-america-act-trump-nationalize-elections" target="_self">nationalize elections</a> and limit voting by mail.Why it matters: The vast majority of Arizonans cast mail ballots, and critics say Trump&#x27;s latest move would disenfranchise some of those voters ahead of a crucial November election in the battleground state.

Arizona ties abound on scientist team picked to aide NASA Moon landing

Four of the 10 scientists chosen to help with NASA's planned moon mission have Arizona ties.

When astronauts take small steps in the first Moon landing since the 1970s, some of those steps will be directed by Arizona scientists.The big picture: NASA&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Artemis" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nasa.gov/humans-in-space/artemis/" data-vars-content-id="14a9b999-d88f-4b8d-afa6-49c433bbc2dc" data-vars-headline="Arizona ties abound on scientist team picked to aide NASA Moon landing" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nasa.gov/humans-in-space/artemis/" target="_blank">Artemis</a> program plans to land human crews on the Moon in 2028.

Sound off: James Beard snubs AZ restaurants

Which chefs or eateries should have been James Beard Award finalists?

None of Arizona&#x27;s 2026 <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="James Beard Award nominees" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/01/21/12-arizona-chefs-and-restaurants-named-james-beard-semifinalists" data-vars-content-id="58261d95-568b-441d-bfa8-11c4f99ed37e" data-vars-headline="Sound off: James Beard snubs AZ restaurants" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/01/21/12-arizona-chefs-and-restaurants-named-james-beard-semifinalists" target="_self">James Beard Award nominees</a> moved on to the finalist round announced yesterday.Why it matters: Our restaurant scene is expanding fast, with inventive <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="chef-driven concepts" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2025/02/13/arizona-center-new-restaurants-steakhouse-cocktail-bar" data-vars-content-id="58261d95-568b-441d-bfa8-11c4f99ed37e" data-vars-headline="Sound off: James Beard snubs AZ restaurants" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2025/02/13/arizona-center-new-restaurants-steakhouse-cocktail-bar" target="_self">chef-driven concepts</a>, high-end <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="international cuisine" data-vars-click-url="https://www.phoenixmag.com/2024/01/20/dine-around-the-world-without-leaving-the-valley/" data-vars-content-id="58261d95-568b-441d-bfa8-11c4f99ed37e" data-vars-headline="Sound off: James Beard snubs AZ restaurants" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.phoenixmag.com/2024/01/20/dine-around-the-world-without-leaving-the-valley/" target="_blank">international cuisine</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new ventures" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2025/05/07/taco-boys-phoenix-restaurant-marisco-boys" data-vars-content-id="58261d95-568b-441d-bfa8-11c4f99ed37e" data-vars-headline="Sound off: James Beard snubs AZ restaurants" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2025/05/07/taco-boys-phoenix-restaurant-marisco-boys" target="_self">new ventures</a> from the teams behind legacy institutions — and it&#x27;s deserving of national acclaim.

Arizona teams to compete in national padel competition

Arizona teams will compete for the first time in an ameteur national padel league.

For the first time, Arizona is fielding teams in a nationwide amateur league for padel, a combination of tennis and squash that&#x27;s often described as the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="world&#x27;s fastest-growing sport" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nbcnews.com/news/latino/padel-racket-sport-popularity-mexico-origins-rcna232524" data-vars-content-id="eb91a7f7-7821-43d8-a6f8-352830e693be" data-vars-headline="Arizona teams to compete in national padel competition" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nbcnews.com/news/latino/padel-racket-sport-popularity-mexico-origins-rcna232524" target="_blank">world&#x27;s fastest-growing sport</a>.State of play: USA National Team League is preparing for its spring season, and five teams from Phoenix, Tempe and Tucson are looking to compete.

Wildcats advance to Elite Eight with win over Arkansas

The Arizona Wildcats return to the Elite Eight for the first time in 11 years after beating Arkansas.

The Arizona Wildcats are headed to the Elite Eight, where they&#x27;ll have a chance to exorcise more than two decades or March Madness ghosts.Driving the news: No. 1 seed UofA handily beat No. 4 seed Arkansas 109-88 in the Sweet Sixteen of the NCAA men&#x27;s basketball tournament Thursday night.Zoom in: The Cats had an epic shooting night, hitting 64% of their shots.<ul><li>The game got chippy in the second half as UofA extended its lead, and the Razorbacks helped the Cats add points at the free throw line with frustration fouls, flagrant fouls and technical fouls.</li><li>UofA scored more points than any tournament team this year except Florida, which put up 114 points in its first-round win.</li><li>The 21-point loss was the worst tournament defeat in Arkansas head coach John Calipari&#x27;s illustrious career, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="per ESPN" data-vars-click-url="https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/48318752/arizona-too-much-arkansas-ncaa-tournament-sweet-16" data-vars-content-id="74ce868b-9ae0-46cd-912b-cb85803bb6c9" data-vars-headline="Wildcats advance to Elite Eight with win over Arkansas" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/48318752/arizona-too-much-arkansas-ncaa-tournament-sweet-16" target="_blank">per ESPN</a>.</li></ul>State of play: UofA goes to its first Elite Eight since Tommy Lloyd took over as head coach in 2021.The intrigue: The Cats haven&#x27;t been to a Final Four since 2001, and the Elite Eight is where they&#x27;ve repeatedly fallen short over the past quarter century.<ul><li>UofA reached the Elite Eight in 2003, 2005, 2011, 2014 and 2015.</li><li>That stretch included some close calls and gut-wrenching losses.</li></ul>What&#x27;s next: UofA will play No. 2 seed Purdue in San Jose on Saturday at 5:49pm.<ul><li>The Boilermakers beat Texas, led by former UofA head coach Sean Miller, 79-77 last night.</li></ul>

D-Backs seek success after injury-filled 2025 season

Key injuries hampered the D-Backs down the stretch last year, but they're looking to bounce back.

The Arizona Diamondbacks are hoping to bounce back this season after a 2025 plagued by injuries, some of which they&#x27;ll still be dealing with this year.The big picture: The D-Backs haven&#x27;t been to the postseason since their Cinderella run to the 2023 World Series, which is getting further and further in the rearview mirror.

Phoenix may bar ICE from using city property without authorization

The Phoenix City Council will vote on a policy to bar ICE from using city property without permission.

The Phoenix City Council will vote Wednesday on a policy that would bar federal immigration agents from using city property without authorization.Why it matters: Residents have shared growing concerns about how federal law enforcement activities &quot;adversely impact the community,&quot; city staff wrote in the meeting <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="agenda" data-vars-click-url="https://www.phoenix.gov/content/dam/phoenix/cityclerksite/city-council-meeting-files/2026/3-25-26%20Formal%20Agenda-FINAL.pdf" data-vars-content-id="95584b7c-dba4-4806-813d-e5b3cba72fd4" data-vars-headline="Phoenix may bar ICE from using city property without authorization" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.phoenix.gov/content/dam/phoenix/cityclerksite/city-council-meeting-files/2026/3-25-26%20Formal%20Agenda-FINAL.pdf" target="_blank">agenda</a>.

Hance Park revitalization to continue with new entryways and more

The next step in a years-long Hance Park revitalization project will create a "grand entryway."

A major long-term revitalization plan at Margaret T. Hance Park will enter its next phase soon with a grand entryway befitting a space intended to be Phoenix&#x27;s crown jewel.Why it matters: City leaders have long had ambitious plans for the park, but the 32.5-acre space just north of downtown <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="hasn&#x27;t always lived up to its potential" data-vars-click-url="https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/phoenix/2019/04/06/makeover-hance-park-near-downtown-phoenix-tied-fundraising-campaign/3330318002/" data-vars-content-id="37d808ae-960e-49a6-9bcb-4bbeef460e4e" data-vars-headline="Hance Park revitalization to continue with new entryways and more" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/phoenix/2019/04/06/makeover-hance-park-near-downtown-phoenix-tied-fundraising-campaign/3330318002/" target="_blank">hasn&#x27;t always lived up to its potential</a>.

Heat wave forces changes to Valley events

We only get so many mild weekends a year, and this heat wave is disrupting one.

This weekend&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="extreme heat" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/03/11/poll-phoenix-heat-100-degrees" data-vars-content-id="0ef03278-e5ac-431e-8d5d-5e26719e24d8" data-vars-headline="Heat wave forces changes to Valley events" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/03/11/poll-phoenix-heat-100-degrees" target="_self">extreme heat</a> — with temperatures expected to hit 105 degrees — is derailing the Valley&#x27;s prime <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="event" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/things-to-do" data-vars-content-id="0ef03278-e5ac-431e-8d5d-5e26719e24d8" data-vars-headline="Heat wave forces changes to Valley events" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/things-to-do" target="_self">event</a> and tourism season.Why it matters: We only get so many mild weekends a year, which is why many of our festivals and outdoor activities are crammed into March.

Valley splash pad season starts as temps climb

Many splash pads are open now, with more set to open through May.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Triple-digit temperatures" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/03/11/poll-phoenix-heat-100-degrees" data-vars-content-id="9efbaa19-a25f-4f69-89ee-b821dadb1ba4" data-vars-headline="Valley splash pad season starts as temps climb" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/03/11/poll-phoenix-heat-100-degrees" target="_self">Triple-digit temperatures</a> in March mean the Valley&#x27;s splash pad season has arrived early.Why it matters: It&#x27;s too early for indoor-only days — water features make the heat manageable.

Spring Training turns the Valley into baseball's home away from home

Fans flock to the Cactus League for sunshine, community and $764M in impact.

Baseball fans from across the country are <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="fleeing winter for the desert" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/02/23/baseball-fans-winter-spring-training-arizona-sloan-park-glendale-mesa" data-vars-content-id="1fae854b-3591-48fa-8d92-4dd40cb835db" data-vars-headline="Spring Training turns the Valley into baseball&#x27;s home away from home" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/02/23/baseball-fans-winter-spring-training-arizona-sloan-park-glendale-mesa" target="_self">fleeing winter for the desert</a> this week as the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Spring Training season" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/02/10/catchers-and-pitchers-report-for-arizona-spring-training" data-vars-content-id="1fae854b-3591-48fa-8d92-4dd40cb835db" data-vars-headline="Spring Training turns the Valley into baseball&#x27;s home away from home" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/02/10/catchers-and-pitchers-report-for-arizona-spring-training" target="_self">Spring Training season</a> kicks off across the Phoenix area.The big picture: This year marks the 79th year of the Cactus League, which now boasts 15 teams training across 10 Valley stadiums.

Free NCAA Women's Final Four fan events in downtown Phoenix

Free fan festivals, concerts and open practices will take over downtown April 2–5.

Phoenix is weeks away from hosting the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="NCAA Women&#x27;s Final Four" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2024/12/10/pic-du-jour-final-four-southwestern-style" data-vars-content-id="f8397986-95c5-4770-9f48-e98b095f39d3" data-vars-headline="Free NCAA Women&#x27;s Final Four fan events in downtown Phoenix" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2024/12/10/pic-du-jour-final-four-southwestern-style" target="_self">NCAA Women&#x27;s Final Four</a> for the first time and the local organizing committee on Tuesday announced a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="ballin&#x27; lineup of fan events" data-vars-click-url="https://phoenixfinalfour.com/arizona-prepares-for-states-ncaa-womens-final-four/" data-vars-content-id="f8397986-95c5-4770-9f48-e98b095f39d3" data-vars-headline="Free NCAA Women&#x27;s Final Four fan events in downtown Phoenix" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://phoenixfinalfour.com/arizona-prepares-for-states-ncaa-womens-final-four/" target="_blank">ballin&#x27; lineup of fan events</a> leading up to the games.Mark your calendars: All events are free and in downtown Phoenix.

Global virtual reality company Sandbox VR opening first Arizona location

Sandbox VR will bring its immersive "full body" virtual reality experience to Arizona this spring.

A virtual reality company that offers immersive &quot;full-body&quot; gaming experiences is opening its first location in Arizona.State of play: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Sandbox VR" data-vars-click-url="https://sandboxvr.com/about-us" data-vars-content-id="2dfa0e6b-1811-4f29-964a-638e13ebf2ec" data-vars-headline="Global virtual reality company Sandbox VR opening first Arizona location" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://sandboxvr.com/about-us" target="_blank">Sandbox VR</a>, which has 74 locations globally, is coming to Gilbert this spring.

Curling slides into the spotlight in the Valley

Olympic hype is driving new players to try curling.

Forget <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="pickleball" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2022/08/10/metro-phoenix-mecca-pickleball-players" data-vars-content-id="5ca119ee-dddc-413e-a20d-ed2566c5a498" data-vars-headline="Curling slides into the spotlight in the Valley" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2022/08/10/metro-phoenix-mecca-pickleball-players" target="_self">pickleball</a>. The trendiest sport in the Valley (at least for the next few weeks) may be the one played with brooms on ice.Why it matters: Every Winter Olympics, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="curling" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/04/what-is-curling-sweeping-rules" data-vars-content-id="5ca119ee-dddc-413e-a20d-ed2566c5a498" data-vars-headline="Curling slides into the spotlight in the Valley" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/04/what-is-curling-sweeping-rules" target="_self">curling</a> becomes the &quot;toast of the town&quot; as the world watches men and women sweep away at the ice in a highly strategic — but not super strenuous — competition, Coyotes Curling Club board member Darryl Horsman told Axios.

Capitol roundup: Lawmakers take 1st steps to repeal Chávez holiday

Arizona lawmakers tackled photo radar, bullying and the César Chávez holiday repeal this week.

Politics

This was the final week for the House and Senate to hear each other&#x27;s bills in committee, and new legislation was still popping up. Here&#x27;s what happened:🗓️ Legislation repealing the state&#x27;s César Chávez holiday took its first step when it got <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="unanimous approval in a Senate committee" data-vars-click-url="https://www.kjzz.org/politics/2026-03-25/arizona-lawmakers-advance-bill-to-repeal-cesar-chavez-holiday" data-vars-content-id="9d2cc83c-2c5d-4e40-a97d-9719b3671c39" data-vars-headline="Capitol roundup: Lawmakers take 1st steps to repeal Chávez holiday" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.kjzz.org/politics/2026-03-25/arizona-lawmakers-advance-bill-to-repeal-cesar-chavez-holiday" target="_blank">unanimous approval in a Senate committee</a>.

Judge voids Arizona Independent Party name change

The judge called it a "political bait and switch."

A Maricopa County Superior Court judge on Wednesday voided the Arizona No Labels Party&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="name change" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2025/10/17/no-labels-arizona-independent-party" data-vars-content-id="6a9c2c77-b517-4a3e-bae8-f19df76a0d94" data-vars-headline="Judge voids Arizona Independent Party name change" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2025/10/17/no-labels-arizona-independent-party" target="_self">name change</a> to the Arizona Independent Party.Why it matters: Arizona&#x27;s unaffiliated voters (which number nearly 1.5 million) are also called independents, leading to concerns of voter confusion.

Hobbs halts budget talks and calls for Republicans to negotiation on Prop. 123

The governor walked away from budget talks, citing legislative leaders' refusal to discuss Prop. 123.

State budget talks are at an impasse after Gov. Katie Hobbs <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="halted negotiations" data-vars-click-url="https://azmirror.com/2026/03/20/budget-blow-up-hobbs-blames-unserious-republicans-who-say-she-is-throwing-a-tantrum/" data-vars-content-id="af0aaa6f-0193-4207-a719-f296e41a3c65" data-vars-headline="Hobbs halts budget talks and calls for Republicans to negotiation on Prop. 123" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://azmirror.com/2026/03/20/budget-blow-up-hobbs-blames-unserious-republicans-who-say-she-is-throwing-a-tantrum/" target="_blank">halted negotiations</a> with Republican legislative leaders over disagreements on education funding and taxes.Why it matters: Hobbs and Republican lawmakers have until June 30 to decide how to spend around $17 billion next fiscal year, and their budget blow-up suggests it could take them until then to reach an agreement.

Sky Harbor part of nationwide ICE deployment for airport security

Sky Harbor was one of the airports where the Trump administration sent ICE to assist with security.

The Trump administration <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="deployed ICE agents" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/22/trump-ice-agents-airports-tsa-dhs-shutdown" data-vars-content-id="ab84a7ed-6a15-49a3-b7a7-2366cfbbd68c" data-vars-headline="Sky Harbor part of nationwide ICE deployment for airport security" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/22/trump-ice-agents-airports-tsa-dhs-shutdown" target="_self">deployed ICE agents</a> to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport to assist short-staffed TSA officers amid the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="partial federal shutdown" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/17/dhs-shutdown-tsa-fema-ice-democrats-discharge" data-vars-content-id="ab84a7ed-6a15-49a3-b7a7-2366cfbbd68c" data-vars-headline="Sky Harbor part of nationwide ICE deployment for airport security" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/17/dhs-shutdown-tsa-fema-ice-democrats-discharge" target="_self">partial federal shutdown</a>.Why it matters: The administration&#x27;s move thrusts the agency that sparked the shutdown <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="with its conduct in Minnesota" data-vars-click-url="http://link/" data-vars-content-id="ab84a7ed-6a15-49a3-b7a7-2366cfbbd68c" data-vars-headline="Sky Harbor part of nationwide ICE deployment for airport security" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="http://link/" target="_blank">with its conduct in Minnesota</a> into the nation&#x27;s airports to deal with the consequences.

Arizona women's deepfake lawsuit targets AI porn industry

Bad actors are exploiting PG social media photos in an AI porn industry, the lawsuit says.

Three Arizona women say in a lawsuit that pornographic videos depicting their likenesses began circulating online after AI platforms were used to create sexual content based on their Instagram posts.The big picture: A new exploitative industry is harnessing AI technology to generate explicit &quot;deepfakes&quot; from PG social media photos, the lawsuit says.

Subscribe to Axios Phoenix

How Trump's mail voting order could affect Arizona voters

Arizona ties abound on scientist team picked to aide NASA Moon landing

Sound off: James Beard snubs AZ restaurants

Arizona teams to compete in national padel competition

Phoenix reporter picks

News 🗞

Things to Do 🗓

Politics 🇺🇸

Food and Drink 🍽

Real Estate 🏠

Sports 🏅

Business 🏦

Axios' 5 big things