An Enduring Legacy: Remembering Dick Van Arsdale
The basketball world mourns the loss of Dick Van Arsdale, the iconic "Original Sun," who has passed away at the age of 81. Van Arsdale's profound impact on the Phoenix Suns and the game of basketball remains indelible, as he was more than just a player; he was a pioneering cornerstone whose legacy continues to inspire.
The Early Years and Rise to Stardom
Born into a basketball-centric family, Van Arsdale's journey began in earnest during his collegiate years at Indiana University. He spent three seasons with the Hoosiers, where his exemplary talent on the court was recognized with All Big Ten honors in his junior year, thanks to an impressive average of 22.3 points per game.
His prowess did not go unnoticed, culminating in his selection by the New York Knicks in the second round of the 1965 NBA Draft. Yet, it would be with the Phoenix Suns, a team he joined through the 1968 expansion draft, where his legacy would truly be cemented.
An Original Sun
The Phoenix Suns, newly established at the time, found a beacon in Dick Van Arsdale. As the first pick in the expansion draft, he was the man chosen to help lay the foundation of the franchise. He quickly made history by scoring the first points in Phoenix Suns team history. This moment signaled the dawn of a new era for both Van Arsdale and the Suns.
In his first season with the team, Van Arsdale's stellar performance, averaging 21 points per game, earned him his inaugural All-Star nod. His excellence would lead to two additional All-Star selections over the course of his nine seasons with the Suns. His contributions on the court were pivotal in leading the team to their first NBA Finals appearance in 1976 and their initial playoff foray.
Beyond the Hardwood
Van Arsdale's tenacity and commitment transcended his playing career. After retiring in 1977 as the Suns' all-time leading scorer, he seamlessly transitioned into various roles that continued to benefit the team. His journey with the Suns saw him embrace roles in broadcasting and in the front office, where he served as general manager and senior vice president of player personnel.
In a further testament to his versatility and leadership, Van Arsdale even took the reins as a coach briefly in 1987, leading the team to a respectable 14-12 record. His enduring influence within the Suns organization was embodied in his selection to the Suns' Ring of Honor, cementing his place amongst the franchise's legends.
A Family Affair
The Van Arsdale basketball legacy was uniquely partnered with that of his twin brother Tom, a teammate at the Suns. The brothers brought their twin synergy to the court, endearing themselves to fans and cementing their joint place in Phoenix Suns history.
Tributes and Reflections
Reflecting on Van Arsdale’s contribution, the Phoenix Suns memorialized him by saying, "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."
The loss of Dick Van Arsdale marks the end of an illustrious chapter in Suns history, but his influence continues to linger in the rafters of the arena that echoes with his achievements. His legacy not only served as the bedrock for a young franchise but also as a perennial source of inspiration for players and fans alike. Dick Van Arsdale may have departed, but the story he penned during his lifetime will never fade from memory, ensuring his spirit lives on within the game he cherished.