Remembering Dick Van Arsdale, the 'Original Sun' who passed away at age 81

PHOENIX - It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the loss of Suns legend Dick Van Arsdale, known as the "Original Sun" and a cherished 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. He earned three All-Star selections, was a member of the team’s first trip to the NBA Finals in 1976 and retired as the franchise’s all-time leading scorer in 1977. 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.

Our thoughts are with his friends and family, including his twin brother and Suns teammate, Tom, during this difficult time.