'Pioneer Phoenix Suns Player, Dick Van Arsdale, Passes Away at Age 81'

Dick Van Arsdale, the initial player added to the roster of the expansion Phoenix Suns in 1968, passed away at the age of 81.

No reason for death was disclosed for Van Arsdale, also known as the "Original Sun."

Later, his identical twin brother, Tom, joined him on the Suns during the 1976-77 season - the last season for both brothers in the NBA.

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On Monday, the Suns announced the death of Dick Van Arsdale.

"We are deeply saddened by the loss of Suns legend Dick Van Arsdale, the 'Original Sun' and a member of our Ring of Honor," stated the team.

"The first pick in the expansion draft to construct the Suns roster and the scorer of the first points in team history, Van Arsdale was a cornerstone of the Suns organization. He received three All-Star selections, was part of the team's first trip to the NBA Finals in 1976, and retired as the franchise's top scorer in 1977. Adored by the Suns organization and fanbase, Van Arsdale held various roles with the team, including broadcaster and front office executive, after his 12-year NBA career."

Born in Indianapolis, the 6-foot-5 Van Arsdale played college basketball at Indiana alongside his brother. Dick was chosen as the No. 13 overall pick in the 1965 NBA Draft by the New York Knicks, while the Detroit Pistons selected Tom one pick later.

Dick Van Arsdale was an All-Star in his first three seasons in Phoenix, averaging at least 21 points per game in each season.

He played in 921 games throughout his career and retired with averages of 16.4 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game.

The brothers later opened an art studio in the suburban area of Scottsdale.

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