The Phoenix Suns are known for their passionate fan base and recent playoff runs, but there’s more to their story.
Here’s a look behind the scenes:
- Expansion Origins: The Suns joined the NBA in 1968 as an expansion team, bringing pro basketball to the desert Southwest.
- Connie Hawkins: The Original Sun: A legendary player known for his banned-from-the-NBA saga, Hawkins became a cornerstone for the early Phoenix Suns teams.
- Paul Westphal: Player and Coach: Westphal was a star guard for the Suns in the 70s and later led them to the 1993 NBA Finals as head coach.
- Barkley Brings the Fire: Charles Barkley was pure entertainment. His MVP season and trash-talking propelled the Suns in the early 90s.
- Seven Seconds or Less: Under coach Mike D’Antoni in the 2000s, the Suns played a revolutionary, fast-paced style emphasizing the three-point shot.
- Steve Nash – The Two-Time MVP: Canadian playmaker Steve Nash embodied that exciting Suns era, earning back-to-back MVP awards.
- The Gorilla: The Suns’ Mascot The Suns Gorilla is one of the most legendary and entertaining mascots in the NBA.
- Footprint Center (Formerly Talking Stick/US Airways): The Suns’ home arena has changed names over the years, but remains a central part of the Phoenix landscape.
- The Valley of the Sun: The team nickname reflects Phoenix’s location within a unique desert valley environment.
- Devin Booker: Franchise Star Booker has become a scoring force, leading a new generation of Suns and establishing himself as a face of the league.
- Chris Paul’s Leadership: While a title eluded him, CP3 was key in the Suns’ revival and helped young players grow into contenders.
- Loyal and Rowdy Fanbase: Suns fans are notoriously passionate, creating a vibrant home-court atmosphere in the arena and across the city.
- Original Orange and Purple: The team went through many jerseys, but the classic orange and purple design carries special meaning for longtime fans.
- Lucky Number 34: Both Charles Barkley and Kevin Johnson wore the iconic 34 for the Suns, and it holds special meaning in franchise history.
- Chasing an Elusive Title: The Suns have reached NBA Finals multiple times but haven’t won yet, making that championship even more of a goal.