Al McCoy, who served as the “Voice of the Suns” for more than 50 years, has died at age 91, the team announced Saturday.
McCoy began doing play-by-play for the Suns in 1972 and remained active through the 2023 playoffs. A press release from the team cited his “distinctive voice, vivid descriptions and deep knowledge of the game,” which combined to give him a style that was beloved by fans in Phoenix and throughout the NBA.
“From his first call in 1972 to his last in 2023, Al McCoy was there for every defining moment in our history,” owner Mat Ishbia said. “He was the heartbeat of our organization, a cherished friend, a mentor to many and a legend whose voice brought countless unforgettable moments to life for generations of Suns fans. We are heartbroken by the passing of our beloved Al, the voice of the Phoenix Suns for over five decades. Our thoughts go out to Al’s family, friends and to our entire Suns community.”
In 2017, McCoy was welcomed into the Suns Ring of Honor, a distinction that’s reserved for franchise legends. The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame selected him for the Curt Gowdy Media Award in 2007, and he was inducted into the Arizona Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2004 and the Arizona Sports Hall of Fame in 2009.
McCoy’s radio career began in 1951 at Drake University. He came to Phoenix in 1956 as an announcer for a minor league baseball team and landed a job with the Suns four years after they were founded.
Among those sharing their remembrances of McCoy was Hall of Famer Steve Nash, who was twice named MVP during his time in Phoenix.
“I got to work with the great Al McCoy for 10 incredible years,” Nash said. “His energy and spirit were unmatched and I’ll never forget all the conversations and laughs we shared. He was the teammate that never wore a jersey. He loved his Phoenix Suns as much as anyone and his legacy will endure the generations of Suns fans to come. Lots of love to the one and only Al McCoy.”
Our condolences go out to Al’s family and friends.