Why Valley Tales is going paid

Subscriber-only content launches later this week, ahead of the Suns' first seeding game against Washington.

(Photo courtesy of D.C. Headley)

Thursday night, I watched the Suns play basketball. I asked Monty Williams and Devin Booker questions during a post-scrimmage media availability. 

Life and work are still far from normal. I am not inside the Orlando “bubble,” which means I absorbed the on-court action solely through the television broadcast. The interviews with Williams and Booker were via Zoom, not in person. 

But it’s the closest I’ve gotten to a game-night routine in months. 

Being back in the rhythm of reporting and writing regularly is almost therapeutic. It’s my version of getting reps. It reinforces how much I truly love this craft. And it’s gratifying that you’re still reading, enjoying and sharing.

All Valley Tales content for the first four weeks — 14 stories and two discussion threads as of Tuesday morning — has been free. As in, I’ve made zero money producing it … while unemployed during a historic pandemic.  

No complaints. Just real talk. 

Now, I’m asking you to back my work by becoming a paid subscriber. 

For $5 per month, you’ll get full access to every piece along with other perks such as subscriber-only virtual watch parties and Q&As. You can also become a founding member by selecting a higher donation. For those who can’t afford any kind of subscription — trust me, I get it — select pieces will remain unlocked.  

Subscriber-only content will launch later this week, ahead of Friday’s first seeding game against Washington. But you can choose your plan now by clicking the orange “subscribe” button at the top of this page. I have plenty in the works to get you ready for the Suns’ official return, and coverage plans throughout the team’s stay in Orlando and beyond. 

Thanks, as always, for your support. I don’t take it for granted.