In a town where the four mens professional sports franchises get mad love, the so-called lower-tier teams get the shaft, even when theyre hoisting championship banners. Just look at the Phoenix Mercury. Though the Phoenix RoadRunners of the ECHL have yet to add a playoff appearance to their résumé, the minor-league ice-hockey squad has impressed and entertained during its three hard-hitting, action-packed seasons. Now the ´Runners attempt to capitalize on the U.S. Airways Center magic left behind by the WNBA-champion Mercury when they open their 36-game home season versus the Utah Grizzlies.
Thu., Feb. 21, 7:11 p.m.; Sat., Feb. 23, 7:11 p.m., 2008