PHOENIX — For many children, playing basketball is more than just learning the basics — it’s an opportunity to build confidence, practice teamwork and form friendships. A new scholarship program from the Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury aims to make these experiences more accessible.
May 17, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Mercury and Phoenix Suns Chief Executive Officer Josh Bartelstein looks on during the first half of the game between the Phoenix Mercury and the Seattle Storm at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
CEO Josh Bartelstein and his wife, Sydney, are teaming up with RAMMS, a nonprofit that has served children through recreational activities for more than 60 years, to expand participation in the Jr. Suns and Jr. Mercury youth basketball leagues. The initiative will provide personally funded scholarships to help offset registration costs, along with game tickets, equipment and other resources.
The commitment addresses a challenge many families face when looking for sports opportunities for their children: the cost of participation. By helping reduce those costs, the program can give more young athletes the chance to learn the game and develop skills that extend beyond the court.
Suns guard Devin Booker (1) greets fans after a win against the Clippers during a game at the Mortgage Matchup Center on Nov. 6, 2025. © Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
“Our Jr. Suns and Jr. Mercury leagues give youth across Arizona the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of basketball, develop important life skills and experience the joy of being part of a team,” Bartelstein said in a press release. “Sydney and I look forward to supporting initiatives that create opportunities for children and families and help more kids play and build confidence.”
This effort also reflects the Suns and Mercury organizations’ broader connection to the communities they serve. Supporting youth sports means investing not only in the next generation of athletes but also in their personal growth, relationships and sense of belonging.
Phoenix Mercury’s Kahleah Copper interacting with a young fan. Credits – Phoenix Mercury
By building on RAMMS’ longstanding work, the scholarship program reinforces the importance of continued community investment and helps ensure more children have opportunities to participate, grow and thrive.
Registration for RAMMS Jr. Suns and Jr. Mercury leagues is open to students in kindergarten through eighth grade at RAMMS.org.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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