The Legacy of Dick Van Arsdale: Remembering the "Original Sun"
The basketball world mourns the loss of Dick Van Arsdale, a beloved figure in the history of the Phoenix Suns, who passed away at the age of 81. Known affectionately as the "Original Sun," Van Arsdale's legacy transcends his impressive statistics; he was a cornerstone in the formative years of the Suns franchise and a revered personality off the court.
Dick Van Arsdale began his noteworthy journey in basketball at Indiana University, where he dazzled fans and experts alike. During his tenure with the Hoosiers, he spent three fruitful seasons and achieved All Big Ten honors in his junior year with an impressive average of 22.3 points per game. This performance set the stage for what would become a significant professional career in the NBA.
Van Arsdale entered the professional arena when drafted by the New York Knicks in the second round of the 1965 NBA Draft. His journey with the Knicks was marked by consistent performance, which paved the way for his selection by the Phoenix Suns in the 1968 expansion draft—a pivotal event that marked the beginning of an era for both Van Arsdale and the Suns.
As the franchise's first signee, Van Arsdale had the honor of scoring the first points in Phoenix Suns team history, symbolizing the dawn of a new era in the NBA. In his inaugural season with the Suns, he averaged 21 points per game and earned his first All-Star selection, validating his critical role in the fledgling team's success.
Over the course of nine seasons with the Suns, Van Arsdale was a three-time All-Star, cementing his status as a formidable force on the court. His leadership was instrumental in guiding the Suns to their first playoff appearance and ultimately their historic first NBA Finals appearance in 1976. By the time he retired in 1977, he held the distinction of being the franchise's all-time leading scorer—a testament to his enduring impact on the team.
Van Arsdale's contributions to the Suns extended beyond his playing days. His transition into broadcasting and various front office roles, including serving as general manager and senior vice president of player personnel, showcased his profound understanding of the game and dedication to the organization. In a coaching stint at the end of the 1987 season, he led the team to a commendable 14-12 record, further solidifying his multifaceted legacy.
Reflecting on Van Arsdale's profound influence, the Suns organization paid tribute with a heartfelt statement: "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."
Furthermore, the Van Arsdale legacy in Phoenix is doubly significant, as Dick shared the court with his twin brother, Tom Van Arsdale, during their tenure with the Suns—a unique chapter in the story of professional basketball that underscores the familial bond and shared passion for the game.
Dick Van Arsdale's presence and contributions will forever be etched in the hearts of Suns fans and the broader basketball community. As a central figure in the team's early narrative, his story is one of commitment, excellence, and an unwavering passion for the game. He leaves behind a legacy of achievement and a lasting impact on the Suns organization that will be cherished for generations to come.