Schenectady Set to Get Pro Basketball Team in 2025

Adem Jones || Issue 10 || December 3rd, 2024

Schenectady is about to make a slam dunk in the sports world. A new professional basketball team, the New York Phoenix, will begin playing in 2025, with its home court at Armory Studios NY on Washington Avenue. The team joins The Basketball League (TBL), the same league as the Albany Patroons, sparking an exciting new rivalry in the Capital Region. The announcement came Tuesday morning at Armory Studios, where team owner Rebecca Clifford introduced Trevis Wyche as the head coach and general manager. Wyche, a former Albany Patroons player and TBL All Star, is known for his championship mindset. “Trevis is a true champion to his core,” Clifford said. “We’re confident he’ll bring that championship DNA to Schenectady.” The Phoenix will bring fast paced, affordable professional basketball to the area, with a strong emphasis on family entertainment. “We want to be more than just fun,” said TBL President Dave Magley. “We want to be a real asset to the community—something you’re proud to have.” The team’s impact goes beyond the game. Magley pointed out plans for players to be active in the community, saying their visibility would extend to mentoring and outreach programs. Todd Garofano, Executive Director of Discover Schenectady, noted that the Armory’s transformation into a basketball arena will also host youth tournaments and other events in the offseason. The Capital Region is no stranger to basketball success. Schenectady boasts a rich history in the sport, including state championships and ties to legends like Basketball Hall of Famer Pat Riley.
Clifford expressed a commitment to keeping the team grounded in Schenectady. “This is where we want to be long term,” Clifford said. While the schedule for the 2025 season hasn’t been released, TBL seasons typically run from March through May. The Phoenix’s rivalry with the Albany Patroons is already generating excitement, with both teams expected to face off at least twice a season. “Schenectady is a basketball town,” said Gary Hughes, chair of the Schenectady County Legislature. “This team is going to be a tremendous success.” With the New York Phoenix on the horizon, Schenectady is poised for a big win, both on and off the court.

Photo Credits: Kyle Adams, the Daily Gazette