Phoenix Suns The good Dick Van Arsdale, who was the primary participant chosen within the franchise’s growth draft to construct the staff, has died, the staff introduced Monday. He was 81 years previous.
Van Arsdale, who was a second spherical choose of the New York Knicks In 1965, he performed three seasons with the staff earlier than becoming a member of Phoenix. He performed for the Suns from 1968 to 1977.
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Phoenix Suns guard Dick Van Arsdale, #5, is defended by Atlanta Hawks guard Pete Maravich, #44, on the Omni on October 30, 1971 in Atlanta. (Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports activities)
“The primary choice within the growth draft to construct the Suns roster and scorer of the primary factors in staff historical past, Van Arsdale was a cornerstone of the Suns group,” the staff mentioned in a press release. press launch. “He earned three All-Star picks, was a member of the staff’s first journey to the NBA Finals in 1976 and retired because the franchise’s all-time main scorer in 1977.
“Beloved throughout the Suns group and followers, Van Arsdale served in a number of roles with the staff, together with broadcaster and entrance workplace government, following his 12-year NBA profession. “
A staff spokesperson advised The Related Press that the franchise obtained the information from his household. The reason for demise was not instantly launched.
FILE – Dick Van Arsdale, No. 5 of the Phoenix Suns, enters a room as Dick Barnett, No. 12 of the New York Knicks, prepares to come back out with the ball throughout an NBA basketball recreation at Madison Sq. Backyard in New York on October 1, 2017. 21, 1969. (AP Photograph/Ron Frehm, file)
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“Our ideas are together with his family and friends, together with his twin brother and Suns teammate Tom, throughout this tough time.”
Van Arsdale starred in 921 video games and averaged 16.4 factors and 4.1 rebounds per recreation throughout his profession.
“We mourn the lack of former Knicks Dick Van Arsdale. Our ideas and condolences exit to the Van Arsdale household,” the Knicks added in a message on X.
A portrait of Dick Van Arsdale on October 3, 2018, in his artwork studio in Scottsdale, Arizona. (Mark Henle, Mark Henle/The Republic)
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The “Authentic Solar” coached the Suns for 26 video games through the 1986-87 season and served as a radio commentator with Al McCoy.
The Related Press contributed to this report.
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