PHOENIX — Suns basketball legend Paul Westphal has died at the age of 70, according to reports. Sports writer and author Mike Lupica shared the news Saturday afternoon on Twitter.
Westphal was best known as a being a prolific all-star and coach for the NBA's Phoenix Suns. The team remembered the popular point guard and coach on their website.
“Westy will forever be remembered as a prominent Valley sports legend both on and off the court,” said Suns Managing Partner Robert Sarver. “He built an illustrious career as both a player and a coach. His legacy ranks among the most quintessential basketball icons of all time.”
Fellow Suns icon Jerry Colangelo also offered his thoughts on Westphal.
“There may be just a handful of people who have as much influence and significance on the history of the Phoenix Suns,” Colangelo said. “All he accomplished as a player and as a coach. Off the court, he was a gentleman, a family man, great moral character. He represented the Suns the way you want every player to represent your franchise.”
During his playing days, Westphal was a five-time All-Star, four with the Suns, and garnered All-NBA recognition for four consecutive seasons, including three selections to the First Team.
In the Suns record books, Westphal is the eighth-leading scorer in Suns history. Westphal is survived by his wife Cindy, and his son Michael and daughter Victoria.
For more on the Suns reflection on Westphal, visit the team's website.
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