It’s been 10 years since the Phoenix Mercury hosted its first Pride Night to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community. They became the first team professional team in Arizona to have this celebration. Over time, it has become a bigger event which is now celebrated by various sports franchises across Arizona. Last night, MLB’s Arizona Diamondbacks hosted their 7th annual Pride Night game, where Mercury’s Brittney Griner, Natasha Cloud, and Kahleah Copper joined in the fun amidst the celebrations.

The Diamondbacks kicked off the Pride Night pleasantries with the three WNBA stars throwing the first pitches. The game featured a special event ticket package including a Diamondbacks pride-themed reversible bucket hat and the opportunity for the fans to participate in the pregame Rainbow Walk on the warning track in the outfield.

The MLB team’s president, Derrick Hall, said, “One of the greatest joys of baseball is the sense of community and pride it builds. I am proud to celebrate diversity and inclusiveness, promoting a culture of acceptance and ensuring everyone feels welcome at the ballpark.” Following this, the WNBA team will also be hosting Pride Night on June 16 against the Seattle Storm at the Footprint Center. As announced previously, the first 2,500 fans in attendance will get a Pride-themed crossbody bag goodie.

Furthermore, 6 local LGBTQIA+ organizations will talk to the fans about their work and public involvement in that work at the game. “I don’t pay attention to keyboard warriors. I pay attention to the fans in the stands. I am confident the Mercury will have high participation from the LGBTQ+ community,” said ONE Community President, Angela Hughey.

Arizona teams taking the Pride celebrations to the next level

At the beginning of the month, the team posted a photo of Brittney Griner sharing an affectionate kiss with her wife Cherelle, Diana Taurasi with her wife Penny, and their two beautiful children, and Natasha Cloud posing with a heart, on X.

Moving on, Phoenix Rising FC will also be hosting its Pride Night on June 22 at the Phoenix Rising Stadium. “Soccer is for everyone. We’re excited to celebrate Pride Month with all of our fans as we take on Charleston Battery in a rematch of last season’s final on June 22. Our owners, players and staff have been out in the community supporting our pride partners all year,” said Bobby Dulle, Rising President.

Here too, the ONE Community will give out June 22 match posters at their booth for the first 1,000 fans in attendance. “I commend the Diamondbacks, the Rising and the Mercury for consistently showing up and showing out for the LGBTQ+ community,” said Hughey in a statement.

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