Basketball fans around the world are mourning the loss of Dick Van Arsdale, a remarkable figure in the history of the NBA, who passed away at the age of 81. Known affectionately in the basketball community as the "Original Sun," Van Arsdale was a linchpin in the early days of the Phoenix Suns' franchise and left an indelible mark on the team's history.
Early Life and College Career
Born and raised alongside his twin brother Tom in Indiana, Van Arsdale honed his craft at Indiana University. During his three seasons with the Hoosiers, he distinguished himself as a formidable player, earning All Big Ten honors in his junior year with an impressive average of 22.3 points per game. His college success laid a strong foundation for his professional career.
Transition to the NBA
In 1965, Van Arsdale's talent caught the eye of the New York Knicks, who drafted him in the second round of the NBA Draft. It was the beginning of an illustrious professional journey that would soon see him making history with a different team. In 1968, the expansion draft opened a new chapter for Van Arsdale when he joined the Phoenix Suns, a franchise ready to carve out its place in the NBA landscape. His contribution was immediate and historic, scoring the first points in the Suns' team history.
Rise as the "Original Sun"
Van Arsdale's impact on the Suns was profound and transformative. In his first season with the team, he averaged an impressive 21 points per game and received his first All-Star nod. Over the next nine seasons, he became a central figure in the Suns' lineup, earning three All-Star selections and establishing himself as the all-time leading scorer for the franchise by the time he retired in 1977.
The Suns' journey to their first NBA Finals appearance in 1976 would not have been possible without Van Arsdale's leadership and playmaking. His ability to secure pivotal victories helped lead the team to multiple playoff appearances, cementing his legacy as a key architect in the franchise's early successes.
A Multifaceted Career Post-Retirement
After hanging up his sneakers, Van Arsdale transitioned seamlessly into different roles within the Suns organization. His passion for the game remained undiminished as he took on responsibilities as a broadcaster and later climbed the ranks to become the general manager and senior vice president of player personnel. His stint as a coach at the end of the 1987 season resulted in a respectable 14-12 record, showcasing his deep understanding of the game from the sidelines.
A Lasting Legacy
Dick Van Arsdale's contributions did not go unrecognized by the team he helped build. As a member of the Suns' Ring of Honor, he was celebrated not only for his on-court achievements but also for his invaluable influence and dedication off the court. The Suns paid tribute to this by stating, "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."
His remarkable journey is further enriched by the presence of his twin brother, Tom, with whom he shared the court on the Suns. Together, the Van Arsdale twins have left a unique and lasting mark on the team's history.
As the Phoenix Suns and the broader basketball community reflect on his passing, Van Arsdale's legacy as the "Original Sun" will continue to resonate through the halls of basketball history, inspiring future generations of players and fans alike. His dedication, both on and off the court, exemplifies the profound impact one individual can have within a team and a sport they love.