Remembering the "Original Sun": A Reflection on Dick Van Arsdale's Legacy
In the storied annals of the Phoenix Suns, few names resonate with the fervor and affection as that of Dick Van Arsdale, affectionately known as the "Original Sun." His recent passing at the age of 81 marks the end of an era for the franchise and its legion of fans who revered him not just for his on-court prowess, but also for the indelible mark he left on the Suns organization.
A College Star's Journey to the NBA
Before becoming a fixture in Phoenix, Van Arsdale honed his skills at Indiana University, where he was a standout performer on the hardwood. Spending three influential seasons with the Hoosiers, he earned All Big Ten honors during his junior year, boasting an impressive scoring average of 22.3 points per game. His collegiate success led to his selection by the New York Knicks in the second round of the 1965 NBA Draft.
Building the Suns Legacy
Van Arsdale's pivotal NBA moment occurred in 1968 when he became the first selection in the Phoenix Suns' expansion draft. This move would cement his legacy as the "Original Sun," a nickname that pointedly captures his foundational role in shaping the identity of the franchise. As the official statement from the Suns reflects, "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."
His impact was immediate and significant. In his inaugural season with the Suns, Van Arsdale averaged 21 points per game and earned his first All-Star nod, the beginning of a string of three All-Star selections over a nine-season tenure with the team. It was under his leadership and scoring capabilities that the Suns reached their first playoff appearance, setting a trajectory for the team's future success.
Van Arsdale played a major role in the Suns' first NBA Finals appearance in 1976, further cementing his status as a franchise icon. He left the court in 1977 as the Suns’ all-time leading scorer, a testament to his enduring talent and dedication.
Beyond the Court: A Continuing Influence
After his official retirement, Van Arsdale's involvement with the Suns did not wane. He moved seamlessly into roles off the court, contributing as a broadcaster and front office executive. Holding positions such as general manager and senior vice president of player personnel, he was integral in leading the Suns from behind the scenes. His contributions took another form in 1987 when he briefly took the reins as coach, guiding the team to a commendable 14-12 record by the end of the season.
Through his various roles within the organization, Van Arsdale continued to wield a profound influence over the Suns. His passion and knowledge of the game remained steadfast, impacting decisions that shaped the team's future endeavors.
A Family Affair
Adding to the narrative of Dick Van Arsdale's rich basketball legacy is the unique story of camaraderie and kinship shared on the court with his twin brother, Tom Van Arsdale. The brothers played together for the Suns, a partnership that further endeared Dick to the fans and added a familial essence to his chronicles in Phoenix.
The Enduring Legend
As the city of Phoenix reflects on the life and career of Dick Van Arsdale, it remembers not just a basketball player of great talent but a figure who helped mold the identity of a young franchise desperate for its cornerstones. The Suns' Ring of Honor fittingly includes Van Arsdale, ensuring that his contributions will not just be remembered, but celebrated by future generations.
In bidding farewell to the "Original Sun," the basketball world salutes Dick Van Arsdale not only for what he achieved but for how he did it—through a combination of skill, leadership, and a deep-seated love for the game and the community that supported him.