Remembering the 'Original Sun': Dick Van Arsdale's Legacy in Basketball
The basketball community mourns the loss of Dick Van Arsdale, who has passed away at the age of 81. Known affectionately as the "Original Sun," Van Arsdale left an indelible mark on the Phoenix Suns franchise, birthing a legacy that extends far beyond his athletic prowess on the court.
Born and raised with a passion for the game, Van Arsdale took his burgeoning talent to Indiana University, where he played for three notable seasons. During his junior year, he secured All Big Ten honors, reflecting his scoring average of an impressive 22.3 points per game. His exceptional skills soon caught the attention of the NBA, leading to his selection by the New York Knicks in the second round of the 1965 NBA Draft.
However, it was with the Phoenix Suns that Van Arsdale carved his niche in the annals of basketball history. Selected by the Suns in the 1968 expansion draft, he made an immediate impact by scoring the first points in team history. This seminal moment was just the beginning of a storied career with the franchise.
On the Court and Beyond
In his first season with the Suns, Van Arsdale averaged an impressive 21 points per game, earning his first All-Star selection. Over nine seasons with Phoenix, he would secure three All-Star nods, solidifying his status as a cornerstone of the team. As the Suns' all-time leading scorer at the time of his retirement in 1977, Van Arsdale played a pivotal role in leading Phoenix to their first NBA Finals appearance in 1976.
Post-retirement, Van Arsdale's contributions to the Suns continued off the court. Transitioning into broadcasting and front office roles, he served as a general manager and senior vice president of player personnel. His deep understanding of the game and leadership skills proved invaluable to the organization. He even returned to coach the Suns at the end of the 1987 season, achieving a 14-12 record during his tenure.
The Van Arsdale legacy within the Suns organization extended to family as well, with Dick’s twin brother, Tom Van Arsdale, joining him as a teammate. Their shared time on the team served as a testament to the strong familial bonds and unyielding love for the sport.
A Lasting Impact
Remembrance of Van Arsdale's contributions is embedded in the Suns' culture. As a part of the team's Ring of Honor, his legacy as a foundational figure in the franchise's development is immortalized. The Phoenix Suns, reflecting on his profound impact, expressed their sorrow and gratitude in a touching 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."
Throughout his life, Dick Van Arsdale embodied the spirit of the game, contributing to its evolution and growth with unwavering love and commitment. His story is one of dedication, resilience, and passion, inspiring future generations of players, coaches, and fans. As the basketball world reflects on his departure, it is clear that the legacy of the "Original Sun" will shine brightly for years to come.