Phoenix Suns great Dick Van Arsdale, who was the first player taken in the franchise's expansion draft to build the team, has died, the team announced Monday. He was 81 years old.
A second-round pick of the New York Knicks in 1965, Van Arsdale played three seasons with the team before going to Phoenix. He played for the Suns from 1968 to 1977.
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Atlanta Hawks guard Pete Maravich (number 44) protects Phoenix Suns guard Dick Van Arsdale (number 5) at the Omni in Atlanta on October 30, 1971. (Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports)
“Van Arsdale, the first selection in the Expansion Draft to build the Suns' roster and the first leading scorer in team history, has become a cornerstone of the Suns organization,” the team said in a news release. “He was a three-time All-Star, was part of the team's first appearance in the NBA Finals in 1976, and retired in 1977 as the franchise's all-time leading scorer.
“Van Arsdale, beloved throughout the Suns organization and fan base, held several positions with the team during his 12-year NBA career, including broadcaster and front office executive.”
A team spokesperson told The Associated Press that the team received word from the family. The cause of death was not immediately released.
FILE – Dick Barnett (No. 12) of the New York Knicks prepares to leave with the ball during an NBA basketball game at Madison Square Garden in New York City on Oct. 10 in New York City. Suns' Dick Van Arsdale (No. 5) enters the play. 21st, 1969. (AP Photo/Ron Frame, File)
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“Our thoughts are with his friends and family, including his twin brother and Suns teammate Tom, during this difficult time.”
Van Arsdale played in 921 games during his career, averaging 16.4 points and 4.1 rebounds per game.
“We mourn the passing of Knicks alumnus Dick Van Arsdale. Our thoughts and condolences go out to Van Arsdale's family,” the Knicks added in a post to X.
A portrait of Dick Van Arsdale taken on October 3, 2018 at Scottsdale Art Studio in Scottsdale, Arizona. (Mark Henle, Mark Henle/Republic)
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The “Original Sun” coached the Suns for 26 games during the 1986-87 season and served as a radio commentator alongside Al McCoy.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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