Phoenix Suns Honor Legendary Broadcaster Al McCoy With Heartfelt Tribute
NBA franchise pays respect to the iconic voice who called Suns games for over five decades.
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Image: Instagram
The Phoenix Suns have taken to social media to honor the legendary broadcaster Al McCoy, paying tribute to the man who served as the voice of the franchise for over five decades. In a heartfelt Instagram post, the team shared a black and white image of McCoy along with the caption, “Remembering the legend Al McCoy today and always 💜🧡,” featuring the team’s signature purple and orange heart emojis.
The image shows McCoy in his element, seated at a broadcast table with headphones on, microphone at the ready, capturing the essence of the man who became synonymous with Suns basketball for generations of fans.
The Voice Of The Phoenix Suns
Al McCoy’s association with the Phoenix Suns spanned an incredible 51 seasons, making him the longest-tenured broadcaster in NBA history. Beginning his tenure in 1972, McCoy became the soundtrack of Suns basketball, calling over 4,000 games before his retirement in 2023.
His distinctive voice and signature catchphrases became part of Phoenix sports culture. When a Suns player would hit a three-pointer, McCoy would exclaim “Shazam!” — a phrase that became so iconic that fans would often shout it in unison throughout the arena. His other memorable calls included “Heartbreak Hotel!” when an opposing player would make a devastating shot against the Suns, and “Wham Bam Slam!” for particularly impressive dunks.
Legacy Of Excellence
McCoy’s contributions to basketball broadcasting earned him numerous accolades throughout his career. He was inducted into the Suns Ring of Honor in 2017, becoming the 15th member and the first non-player or coach to receive this distinction. In 2007, he was inducted into the Arizona Sports Hall of Fame, and in 2012, he received the prestigious Curt Gowdy Media Award from the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
Beyond his broadcasting skills, McCoy was known for his encyclopedic knowledge of the game and his ability to paint a vivid picture for radio listeners. He called games during all three of the Suns’ NBA Finals appearances (1976, 1993, and 2021), witnessing the highs and lows of the franchise firsthand.
A Lasting Impression
McCoy’s influence extended far beyond just calling games. He became a beloved figure in Arizona sports, known for his professionalism, his warm personality, and his genuine love for basketball. Multiple generations of Suns fans grew up with his voice as the soundtrack to their basketball fandom.
When McCoy announced his retirement in 2023, it marked the end of an era for the franchise. His final season coincided with the team’s 2022-23 campaign, allowing fans to celebrate his contributions throughout his farewell tour.
The Phoenix Suns, founded in 1968, have had their share of notable figures throughout their history, but few have left an imprint as significant as Al McCoy. His voice became the constant through decades of change – different players, coaches, arenas, and ownership groups came and went, but McCoy remained, providing continuity and institutional knowledge that became invaluable to the organization and its fanbase.
As the Suns continue to build their legacy with stars like Booker, Durant, and Bradley Beal, they do so on a foundation that includes the narrative crafted by McCoy’s voice for over half a century, ensuring his place in team history is forever secured alongside the greatest players ever to wear the purple and orange.
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