Written by Candra Plumb
Modified & Updated: 28 Apr 2024
Reviewed by Jessica Corbett
The Phoenix Suns are a professional basketball team based in Phoenix, Arizona. They are a member of the Western Conference of the National Basketball Association (NBA). Since their founding in 1968, the Suns have become a beloved and iconic team in Arizona, attracting a large and dedicated fanbase. With a rich history and a number of notable achievements, the Suns have carved out a place for themselves in the annals of basketball. From their exhilarating run to the NBA Finals in 1993, to their success in nurturing talented players and developing an exciting style of play, the Suns have left an indelible mark on the sport.In this article, we will explore 18 fascinating facts about the Phoenix Suns, shedding light on their championship aspirations, legendary players, and memorable moments. Whether you’re a die-hard Suns fan or simply curious about the team’s history, get ready to dive into the world of this remarkable basketball franchise.
Key Takeaways:
- The Phoenix Suns, founded in 1968, have a rich history with legendary players, successful seasons, and a devoted fanbase known as the “Sunsationals.”
- With iconic players like Charles Barkley and Steve Nash, the Suns have made 29 playoff appearances and hold the record for the quickest trip to the NBA Finals.
The Phoenix Suns were founded in 1968.
The Phoenix Suns were established as an expansion team in the NBA in 1968, joining the league alongside the Milwaukee Bucks.
The team is based in Phoenix, Arizona.
The Phoenix Suns call the city of Phoenix, Arizona their home. They play their home games at the Talking Stick Resort Arena.
The Suns have made the playoffs numerous times.
The Phoenix Suns have a strong playoff history, having made the playoffs 29 times as of the 2021-2022 NBA season.
The team colors are purple, orange, and black.
The Phoenix Suns’ team colors are purple, orange, and black. These colors are represented in their team logo, jerseys, and merchandise.
The Suns have had some legendary players.
Throughout their history, the Phoenix Suns have been home to some remarkable basketball talents, including Charles Barkley, Steve Nash, and Amar’e Stoudemire.
The team has had successful seasons.
The Phoenix Suns have had several successful seasons, including reaching the NBA Finals twice in their history, in 1976 and 1993.
The Suns hold the record for the quickest trip to the NBA Finals.
In the 1975-1976 NBA season, the Phoenix Suns made it to the NBA Finals in just their eighth year of existence, setting a record at the time.
Phoenix Suns’ fans are known as the “Sunsationals.”
The passionate fanbase of the Phoenix Suns is referred to as the “Sunsationals.” They are known for their loud cheers and unwavering support for the team.
Devin Booker scored 70 points in a single game.
In a game against the Boston Celtics on March 24, 2017, Devin Booker of the Phoenix Suns scored a remarkable 70 points, becoming the youngest player in NBA history to reach that milestone.
Charles Barkley won the NBA MVP award as a member of the Suns.
In the 1992-1993 NBA season, Charles Barkley, a former Suns player, won the NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, solidifying his status as one of the greatest players in the franchise’s history.
The Suns have retired several jersey numbers.
The Phoenix Suns have honored some of their greatest players by retiring their jersey numbers, including Charles Barkley’s #34, Steve Nash’s #13, and Connie Hawkins’ #42.
The Suns had a famous rivalry with the Los Angeles Lakers.
The Phoenix Suns and the Los Angeles Lakers had a heated rivalry in the 2000s, engaging in memorable playoff matchups, including the 2006 and 2010 Western Conference Finals.
Phoenix Suns’ mascot is named “Go,” short for “Gorilla.”
The Phoenix Suns’ mascot is a gorilla named “Go.” He has been entertaining fans and energizing the crowd at Suns games for many years.
The team has had multiple head coaches over the years.
The Phoenix Suns have had several head coaches throughout their history, including renowned coaches like Cotton Fitzsimmons, Paul Westphal, and Mike D’Antoni.
Kevin Johnson holds the franchise record for most assists.
Kevin Johnson, a former Suns player, holds the franchise record for most assists in a Phoenix Suns uniform with 6,518 assists during his career.
The Suns have had successful draft picks.
The Phoenix Suns have made some great draft picks over the years, selecting talented players such as Devin Booker, Amar’e Stoudemire, and Shawn Marion.
Steve Nash won back-to-back NBA MVP awards while playing for the Suns.
Steve Nash, one of the most beloved players in Suns’ history, won the NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) award in both the 2004-2005 and 2005-2006 seasons.
The Suns have a devoted fanbase.
The Phoenix Suns have a strong and dedicated fanbase, who support the team through thick and thin, making the Talking Stick Resort Arena an electrifying environment during home games.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Phoenix Suns have a storied history filled with incredible accomplishments and passionate fans. From their humble beginnings in 1968 to their current status as one of the most exciting teams in the NBA, the Suns have captivated audiences with their high-flying style of play and dedication to success. With players like Charles Barkley, Steve Nash, and Devin Booker, the Suns have always had a superstar presence on the court. As the team continues to push for greatness, there’s no doubt that the Phoenix Suns will remain a force to be reckoned with in the world of basketball.
FAQs
1. When was the Phoenix Suns founded?
The Phoenix Suns were founded in 1968 as an expansion team.
2. What is the Suns’ home arena?
The Suns play their home games at the Talking Stick Resort Arena in downtown Phoenix.
3. How many NBA championships have the Phoenix Suns won?
As of now, the Suns have not won an NBA championship.
4. Who is the all-time leading scorer for the Phoenix Suns?
That title belongs to Walter Davis, who scored a total of 15,666 points during his time with the Suns.
5. Who is the current head coach of the Phoenix Suns?
As of 2021, Monty Williams is the head coach of the Phoenix Suns.
6. What is the Suns’ mascot?
The Suns’ mascot is called “The Gorilla,” and he has been entertaining fans since 1980.
7. How many NBA All-Stars have the Phoenix Suns had?
The Suns have had a total of 29 NBA All-Stars in their history.
8. Who holds the record for most assists in a single game for the Suns?
The record for most assists in a single game is held by Kevin Johnson, who dished out 25 assists in a game against the Denver Nuggets on December 17, 1988.
9. What is the Suns’ biggest rival?
The Los Angeles Lakers are considered the Suns’ biggest rival, with many memorable playoff matchups between the two teams over the years.
10. Who is the Suns’ all-time leader in three-pointers made?
That distinction goes to Dan Majerle, who made a total of 800 three-pointers during his tenure with the Suns.
Want to learn more about the people behind the Phoenix Suns' success? Explore the extraordinary facts about team owner Robert Sarver, superstar player Devin Booker's impressive achievements, and the astonishing contributions of former executive Jerry Colangelo. These articles offer captivating insights into the individuals who have shaped the Suns' franchise, making them a must-read for any basketball enthusiast or curious fan looking to deepen their knowledge of this iconic NBA team.
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