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Former Arizona professional sports teams you might not remember

Arizona is one of the most sports-rich states in the U.S., featuring teams from the NFL, NBA, NHL and MLB, as well as the WNBA, United Soccer League, Indoor Football League and American Hockey League. But the Grand Canyon State has been home to a number of other professional teams that either left the state or ceased operations. Here's a quick look at the history of those franchises.

Former Arizona professional sports teams you might not remember 5. Phoenix Smash (1992-94): The Smash was part of World TeamTennis, a mixed-gender pro tennis league that was founded in 1974 and is still operational. Former Suns and Diamondbacks owner Jerry Colangelo founded the team, which played at America West Arena (now Talking Stick Resort Arena). Two-time Wimbledon champ Jimmy Connors (pictured above) played for the Smash, and his showdown with Bjorn Borg in Phoenix drew nearly 8,000 fans, according to funwhileitlasted.net. The Smash folded after three seasons due to unsustainable operating costs. (Photo via Getty Images)Photo by: Al Bello

Former Arizona professional sports teams you might not remember

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  • Former Arizona professional sports teams you might not remember

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5. Phoenix Smash (1992-94): The Smash was part of World TeamTennis, a mixed-gender pro tennis league that was founded in 1974 and is still operational. Former Suns and Diamondbacks owner Jerry Colangelo founded the team, which played at America West Arena (now Talking Stick Resort Arena). Two-time Wimbledon champ Jimmy Connors (pictured above) played for the Smash, and his showdown with Bjorn Borg in Phoenix drew nearly 8,000 fans, according to funwhileitlasted.net. The Smash folded after three seasons due to unsustainable operating costs. (Photo via Getty Images)Al Bello
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