Phoenix Suns Legend Dick Van Arsdale Dies at 81

Dick Van Arsdale, a renowned former NBA player known as the 'Original Sun,' has passed away at the age of 81. Van Arsdale was the first player selected by the Phoenix Suns in the 1968 expansion draft and became the franchise's all-time leading scorer by the time he retired in 1977. He was a three-time All-Star and played a pivotal role in leading the Suns to their first NBA Finals appearance in 1976. Prior to his NBA career, he was an All-American at Indiana University, where he played alongside his twin brother, Tom, with whom he shared the Indiana Mr. Basketball honor. After retiring, Van Arsdale stayed with the Suns in various roles, including as a broadcaster and front office executive. His legacy is celebrated by the Suns, as he was inducted into their Ring of Honor and had his jersey retired.