The Legacy of Dick Van Arsdale: A Suns Icon Remembered
In the annals of basketball history, Dick Van Arsdale stands as a towering figure, particularly within the Phoenix Suns organization. As news of his passing at age 81 reached the basketball community, tributes poured in not only from fans but from the Suns organization itself, reflecting the deep impact he had on the team and the league at large.
Born to light up the basketball court, Van Arsdale began crafting his legacy during his college years at Indiana University. Spending three seasons with the Hoosiers, his talent shone brightly as he earned All Big Ten honors in his junior year, averaging an impressive 22.3 points per game. This stellar performance paved the way for his entry into the NBA, and in the 1965 NBA Draft, he was selected by the New York Knicks in the second round.
However, it was his move to Phoenix that truly cemented his legacy. In the 1968 expansion draft, Van Arsdale was selected by the then-fledgling Phoenix Suns and quickly became a cornerstone of the franchise. Known affectionately as the "Original Sun," he made history by scoring the first points in the team's existence. This marked the beginning of an illustrious nine-season tenure with the Suns, during which he consistently demonstrated his basketball prowess.
Van Arsdale's impact on the court was immediate and profound. In his first season with the Suns, he averaged 21 points per game and earned his first All-Star selection, setting the tone for a career that saw him secure three All-Star nods. His efforts were not just in scoring, as he played a crucial role in leading the Suns to their first NBA Finals appearance in 1976, a benchmark moment in the team's history.
By the time of his retirement in 1977, Van Arsdale had etched his name in the Suns' record books as the all-time leading scorer, a testament to his enduring contributions on the court. But his influence did not end there.
Upon hanging up his sneakers, Van Arsdale transitioned seamlessly into roles that would continue to benefit the Suns. His post-playing career saw him serve as a broadcaster, imparting his knowledge and passion for the game to viewers. Moving into executive roles, he contributed significantly as the general manager and senior vice president of player personnel. His commitment to the franchise was further underscored when he briefly took the coaching reins at the end of the 1987 season, guiding the team to a 14-12 record.
Dick Van Arsdale's connection to the Suns was not only professional but personal as well, with his twin brother, Tom Van Arsdale, having been a teammate. Together, they formed a unique chapter in the Suns' history, further enriching the team's narrative.
Reflecting on Van Arsdale's contributions, the Phoenix Suns released an official statement, expressing profound loss: "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Suns legend Dick Van Arsdale, the 'Original Sun' and a member of our Ring of Honor. The first selection in the expansion draft to build the Suns roster and the scorer of the first points in team history, Van Arsdale was a cornerstone of the Suns organization... 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."
This statement encapsulates the essence of Dick Van Arsdale's influence — not just as a player, but as a cherished figure within the Suns family. As we reflect on his life and legacy, one can't help but recognize the indelible imprint he has left on basketball and the Phoenix Suns, truly embodying the spirit of the "Original Sun."