A Legendary Chapter Ends: Remembering Dick Van Arsdale, The "Original Sun"
The basketball world, especially the Phoenix Suns community, mourns the loss of a true legend. Dick Van Arsdale, affectionately known as the "Original Sun," left an indelible mark on the NBA and passed away at the age of 81. His journey through basketball, replete with memorable firsts and remarkable milestones, reflects a dedication to the sport that has inspired fans and athletes alike.
Van Arsdale's basketball journey began at Indiana University, where he made a significant impact in his three seasons. He secured All Big Ten honors during his junior year, boasting an impressive average of 22.3 points per game. This achievement set the stage for his entry into the professional league when the New York Knicks drafted him in the second round of the 1965 NBA Draft. His time with the Knicks, however, was only the prelude to a more profound legacy with a team on the horizon.
In 1968, fate set Van Arsdale on a new path as he was selected by the Phoenix Suns in the expansion draft. He scored the first points in the fledgling franchise's history, instantly becoming a cornerstone for the Suns. In his inaugural season with the team, Van Arsdale averaged 21 points per game and earned his first All-Star selection. These achievements were only the beginning of a storied career in Phoenix.
Over nine seasons with the Suns, Van Arsdale earned three All-Star selections and played a pivotal role in leading the team to its first NBA Finals appearance in 1976. He retired in 1977 as the Suns' all-time leading scorer at that point, having helped guide them to their first playoff appearance. Van Arsdale's impact on the court was only matched by his off-court contributions to the organization.
Upon retiring from playing, he seamlessly transitioned into broadcasting and various front office roles with the Suns. As a general manager and senior vice president of player personnel, Van Arsdale helped shape the future of the franchise. His coaching stint at the end of the 1987 season saw him lead the team to a 14-12 record, underscoring his comprehensive understanding of the game and leadership skills.
The Phoenix Suns paid a heartfelt tribute to Van Arsdale in an official 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."
Van Arsdale's legacy is closely intertwined with that of his twin brother, Tom Van Arsdale, who was also a teammate during their time with the Suns. The bond they shared on and off the court added another layer of depth to his storied career.
A member of the Suns' Ring of Honor, Van Arsdale's impact on the team and its fans continues to resonate. His contributions during the formative years of the Suns laid the foundation for the team's future successes and cultivation of loyal fanbase. For a city that embraced its NBA franchise with fervor, Van Arsdale represented the spirit and resilience that has come to define the Suns.
As the basketball world and the Arizona community reflect on his life and career, Dick Van Arsdale is remembered not only as a prolific scorer and strategic mind but also as a beloved figure whose passion for the game transcended the court and contributed to the sport’s rich history. His legacy as the “Original Sun” truly endures.