Southaven is getting the ice back. Officials announced Wednesday that professional hockey will return to the Mid-South this October, with a new minor-league team set to play at the Landers Center. The franchise restores a pro tenant to the arena and, local leaders say, brings both a developmental stop for rising players and a fresh economic jolt for DeSoto County.
Officials Announce New FPHL Team At Landers Center
At a press conference on Wednesday, March 25, Southaven and league officials confirmed that the Federal Prospects Hockey League will launch its 15th franchise in Southaven starting this October, as reported by The Daily Memphian. Southaven Mayor Darren Musselwhite took part in the announcement, where officials framed the new club as both a significant economic boost for DeSoto County and a fresh developmental path for players trying to climb the pro ladder.
League And Team Pages Go Live
The league's official site now highlights Southaven on its "Future Markets" map and links to a dedicated Mid-South market page. According to the Federal Prospects Hockey League, the market is currently labeled "Coming 2026-27." At the same time, the new team site, Mid-South Pro Hockey, is already in full sales mode, offering season-ticket membership information and a "Needs a Name" section that invites fans to weigh in on what the franchise should be called.
A Return After The RiverKings
The Landers Center is no stranger to pro hockey. The Mississippi RiverKings previously called the arena home, and Wikipedia notes that the team played there from 2000 through 2018. The RiverKings then suspended operations ahead of the 2018-19 Southern Professional Hockey League season, Action News 5 reported, leaving the region without a pro team on the ice.
Arena Upgrades And Local Impact
The hockey news lands as the Landers Center undergoes a major modernization and energy-efficiency overhaul that is scheduled to wrap in October 2026, according to the project release. County leaders say the upgraded facilities and new infrastructure should make it easier to secure regular tenants and events, which in turn help funnel money to nearby hotels, restaurants and retail spots that thrive on game-night traffic.
What Fans Should Know
Some key details are still under wraps. The team has yet to announce a name, full ownership information or a complete game schedule, with organizers saying those pieces will come out over the next few months. Fans who want a head start can sign up for updates and season-ticket membership details on the team website. According to the venues' online information, the Landers Center box office will handle ticketing once single-game sales go live.
Looking Ahead
If the rollout stays on track, the new club will bring regular pro hockey nights back to the Mid-South and give local youth and junior players a visible pro destination close to home. Officials say first home games are expected in October, with the team name and full schedule set to be revealed in the weeks ahead.
