Suns home games bring in big revenue for local businesses

PHOENIX - Suns fans have anxiously waited for the regular season to start, but they aren't the only ones excited to see the team back in action.

Downtown Phoenix businesses have suffered during the NBA lockout, which canceled nearly two months of the NBA season.

"We each had to take some cuts," said Bobbie Newbill, a manager at Steve's Greenhouse Grill, which sits across the street from U.S. Airways Center.

Newbill said the lockout cost employees shift hours.

Many downtown businesses suffered from the late start to the season, as Suns home games bring in millions of dollars of revenue. "We're really excited to have them back," Newbill said. "We welcome them with open arms [and] all the fans."

Newbill told ABC15 Suns fans usually provide big business as jubilant fans celebrate before and after games.

The Suns were supposed to start at the beginning of November, but the lockout pushed the first regular season game to this Monday night.

"I look forward to serving the fans good food and making more money," Newbill said. "That's what it's all about."

Counting Monday's game, the Suns will play at least 33 home games.