A Legacy Cemented: Remembering Dick Van Arsdale
Dick Van Arsdale, the basketball stalwart revered as the "Original Sun," has passed away at the age of 81. Celebrated for his profound impact both on and off the court, Van Arsdale's legacy has left an indelible mark on the Phoenix Suns and the NBA community at large. His journey from collegiate basketball standout to integral NBA figure is a testament to his talent and dedication.
Collegiate Beginnings
Van Arsdale's basketball journey began at Indiana University where he spent three noteworthy seasons. During his junior year, he distinguished himself by earning All Big Ten honors, averaging an impressive 22.3 points per game. His success at the collegiate level laid the foundation for a promising professional career, attracting attention nationwide.
NBA Draft and the New York Knicks
In 1965, Van Arsdale's potential was recognized by the New York Knicks, who drafted him in the second round. His time with the Knicks was marked by his hard work and dedication, characteristics that would define his career. However, it was with the Phoenix Suns that Van Arsdale truly found his place and made history.
The Phoenix Suns Era
As the first selection in the 1968 expansion draft, Van Arsdale was chosen to help build the fledgling Phoenix Suns roster. He made an immediate impact by scoring the first points in the team's history and went on to average 21 points per game in his first season, earning his first All-Star nod. His influence was pivotal as he secured three All-Star selections over nine seasons and contributed to the Suns' first NBA Finals appearance in 1976.
Van Arsdale's role in leading the Suns to their first playoff appearance further solidified his status as a cornerstone of the team. By the time he retired in 1977, he had achieved the status of the Suns' all-time leading scorer, a record that spoke volumes about his skill and resilience.
Beyond the Court
The end of Van Arsdale's playing career only marked the beginning of his deep involvement with the Suns. He seamlessly transitioned into broadcasting and front office roles, serving as a general manager and senior vice president of player personnel, among other positions. His multifaceted contributions were critical in shaping the future of the franchise.
In a brief coaching stint, he led the Suns to a 14-12 record at the end of the 1987 season, once again demonstrating his leadership capabilities. Furthermore, Van Arsdale's contributions were immortalized when he was inducted into the Suns' Ring of Honor, a tribute to his lasting influence on the organization.
A Family Affair
Adding a unique dimension to Van Arsdale's story was his bond with his twin brother, Tom Van Arsdale. The brothers were teammates at the Suns, capturing the imagination and hearts of fans with their shared dedication to the game.
A Final Tribute
The Phoenix Suns paid homage to Van Arsdale in 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."
In remembering Dick Van Arsdale, we celebrate not only his contributions to basketball but also his enduring legacy within the Phoenix Suns organization. His career, spanning the roles of player, executive, and coach, embodies a life dedicated to excellence in the sport he loved.