PHOENIX — The upcoming NBA season will feel a little different for the Phoenix Suns. For the first time in decades, we won't see a familiar face on the sidelines or hear "Shazam!" echo through the radio.
Suns legendary radio broadcaster Al McCoy died peacefully on Sept. 21 after being the "Voie of the Suns" for 51 seasons. His absence from the Arizona sports world will be greatly missed.
To honor McCoy, the Suns announced Monday that players will wear a special black band on their jerseys during the 2024-25 season. The band will be on the left shoulder and will have "Al" in white lettering.
“Al McCoy’s voice represented the best of the Phoenix Suns organization for over five decades,” said Mat Ishbia, owner of the Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury. “The impact he had on this organization, this city, and our fans cannot be understated. This jersey band will be a reminder of Al’s enduring legacy every time we take the court.”
McCoy is the longest-tenured team broadcaster in NBA history and is known as the "dean of NBA broadcasters," according to a release from the team.
When asked what McCoy meant to the team, Suns guard Devin Booker said it was like losing a family member.
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