Texas Jai-Alai
Texas was the second state in the U.S. to host a Jai-alai fronton after Florida. The Lone Star State constructed a fronton for the world's fastest ballgame with a capacity for 12,000 spectators. It aimed to reactivate this Basque sport in Texas and employed around 45 pelotaris. Texas Jai-alai opened in 2009.
Located just north of the city of Dallas in the Plano area, the fronton was situated near a commercial complex that supported attendance at Texas Jai-alai.
The commercial complex also featured restaurants, a cafeteria, and a day-care center. Texas Jai-alai had a capacity of 12,000 spectators, and its court complied with the traditional frontons of Cesta Punta.
Texas Jai-alai also featured luxury suites, gift shops, a VIP section, and concession areas. The fronton offered free Jai-alai lessons to kids with the hope of grooming future professional players.
Texas Jai-alai was open to the public 11 months a year, with 12 game performances from Tuesday to Saturday.
Unfortunately, Texas Jai-alai permanently closed in 2017, ending its brief but notable presence in the U.S. Jai-alai scene. The closure marked the conclusion of an ambitious effort to establish the sport in Texas, leaving behind memories of fast-paced action and a dedicated community of pelotaris and fans.