A Legacy of Excellence: Remembering Dick Van Arsdale, the 'Original Sun'
The basketball world mourns the loss of a true legend, Dick Van Arsdale, who recently passed away at the age of 81. Known affectionately as the "Original Sun," Van Arsdale's storied career with the Phoenix Suns and lasting impact on the sport continue to resonate with fans and the basketball community.
Rise to Stardom
Van Arsdale's journey to prominence began at Indiana University, where he showcased exceptional talent over three seasons. A standout player during his collegiate years, he earned All Big Ten honors in his junior year, boasting an impressive average of 22.3 points per game. His performance caught the attention of professional scouts, leading to his selection by the New York Knicks in the second round of the 1965 NBA Draft.
The Birth of a Franchise
In 1968, a new chapter in Van Arsdale’s career commenced when he was chosen by the Phoenix Suns in the expansion draft. As the first player selected to embody the Suns’ inaugural roster, he fittingly scored the very first points in the franchise's history. This moment marked the beginning of a deep connection between Van Arsdale and the city of Phoenix, as he quickly became the face of the young team.
His debut season with the Suns was nothing short of remarkable. Van Arsdale averaged 21 points per game and earned his first NBA All-Star selection, setting the tone for his influential role in the team’s development. Over nine seasons in Phoenix, he achieved three All-Star accolades, cementing his legacy as a core contributor to the Suns’ early successes.
Impact on the Court and Beyond
Beyond individual accolades, Van Arsdale played an instrumental role in the Suns' first playoff appearances and their historic journey to the NBA Finals in 1976. By the time of his retirement in 1977, he left the court as the Suns’ all-time leading scorer, a testament to his scoring prowess and dedication.
However, Van Arsdale's influence extended beyond his on-court achievements. After hanging up his jersey, he transitioned into various roles within the Suns organization, including broadcasting and executive positions. He served notably as the general manager and senior vice president of player personnel, contributing significantly to the franchise's ongoing growth and development. His brief stint as a coach at the end of the 1987 season, where he led the team to a 14-12 record, highlighted his versatile talents and deep understanding of the game.
A Lasting Tribute
In recognition of his lasting contributions, Van Arsdale was inducted into the Suns’ prestigious Ring of Honor. This accolade paid homage to his unwavering dedication and pivotal role in shaping the team’s identity during its formative years. The Suns organization expressed their deep sorrow over his passing, with an official statement honoring his legacy: "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Suns legend Dick Van Arsdale, the 'Original Sun' and a member of our Ring of Honor... Beloved throughout the Suns organization and fanbase, Van Arsdale held several positions with the team, including broadcaster and front office executive, following his 12-year NBA career."
Van Arsdale’s influence extended to his personal life as well, where he shared his basketball journey with his twin brother, Tom, a teammate during his time with the Suns. Their shared experiences added another layer to Van Arsdale’s rich legacy in the NBA, creating cherished memories that remain in the hearts of fans and colleagues alike.
As the basketball community remembers Dick Van Arsdale, his contributions on and off the court stand as a testament to his enduring spirit and passion for the game. His story is a reminder of the profound impact one individual can have on a franchise and its fans, inspiring future generations of athletes to pursue excellence with dedication and heart.