Today’s announcement of the death of Al McCoy at the age of 91 sent shockwaves through the hearts of Suns fans and the NBA world.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!McCoy, the play-by-play voice for the Suns for 51 years, inspired countless people with his unique and memorable calls and knowledge of basketball. In 2017, McCoy earned the team’s highest honor when he became the 15th person inducted into the Suns Ring of Honor.
Here are some reactions to his passing from the Suns’ press release and social media:
Reactions to the passing of Al McCoy from the McCoy family, Mat Ishbia, Mike Budenholzer, Devin Booker, Steve Nash and Charles Barkley #Suns https://t.co/qK6gxBdLWH pic.twitter.com/ifTST8cHtF
— Burn City Suns Talk ????️ (@BurnCitySuns) September 21, 2024
The McCoy Family: “As a father, he taught us the value of respect, loyalty, hard work, and love – both on and off the court. His passion, dedication and kindness touched countless lives, and while he may be gone, the impact he made will be felt for generations to come.”
Phoenix Suns Owner Mat Ishbia: “From his first call in 1972 to his last in 2023, Al McCoy was there for every defining moment in our history. 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.”
Phoenix Suns Head Coach Mike Budenholzer: “We lost one of my heroes. I can still hear Al’s voice in our living room and backyard calling the plays of Sweet D, Westy and Double A … SHAZAM!!! He brought the Suns into my life, like he did for generations of kids across Arizona. Al was an icon and he will be missed”
Phoenix Suns All-Star Devin Booker: “I had the privilege of Al McCoy narrating the first eight years of my career. He was inducted into the Ring of Honor my second season, and it was then I really understood what a special talent he was. And over the course of my career, I’ve learned what an even more special person he was. We will miss Al, and I am so glad our legacies in Phoenix are forever connected.”
Phoenix Suns Ring of Honor Member Steve Nash:“I got to work with the great Al McCoy for 10 incredible years. 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.”
Phoenix Suns Ring of Honor Member Charles Barkley: “This is a sad day for the Suns and the Suns family. Al McCoy represented everything that is great about Phoenix, the Phoenix Suns and people who love basketball. I was blessed and honored to work with Al and I’m gonna miss him.”
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver issued the following statement today regarding the passing of Al McCoy. pic.twitter.com/4EuSKmzVDV
— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) September 21, 2024
— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) September 21, 2024
We extend our deepest condolences to Al's loved ones and the entire @Suns family. There will never be another like him. ???????? https://t.co/0KByAP5j4c pic.twitter.com/NMXAzTVlpc
— Arizona Diamondbacks (@Dbacks) September 21, 2024
We join the entire Arizona sports community in celebrating the life of the great Suns broadcaster, Al McCoy.
Our most sincere condolences go out to our friends at the Suns and the McCoy family. pic.twitter.com/pgGe6FYZk6
— Arizona Cardinals (@AZCardinals) September 22, 2024
Suns legend Al MCoy has passed away at the age of 91. Al was like a second dad or extra grandad to a lot oof us. He traveled with us, ate with us, drank with us, told us to stop bitching at the refs, hugged us, & loved us. We loved him back. Rest, Al.????????pic.twitter.com/K7hDNjx53R
— Rex Chapman???????? (@RexChapman) September 21, 2024
Rest easy Legend! You've left an indelible mark on the Team, the @nba and the Az community. #Godspeed ???????????? https://t.co/iPluqQR02p
— Kevin Ray (@kray1voice) September 21, 2024
RIP Mentor! ???????????????????? https://t.co/ITYcTSvh7m
— Eddie A Johnson (@Jumpshot8) September 21, 2024
Al McCoy was a great mentor and friend. The best broadcaster in Arizona history, and one of the all time great NBA announcers. Al was kind, thoughtful, and gracious with his time. Was grateful to have spoken to Al recently and to hear the peace in his voice.
— Dave Pasch (@DavePasch) September 21, 2024
Devin Booker shared a few special photos with Al McCoy on his IG ???????? pic.twitter.com/vFRvZbVGVV
— PHNX Suns (@PHNX_Suns) September 21, 2024
Read more about McCoy’s passing below.
Legendary Suns play-by-play announcer Al McCoy passes away at age 91
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Brendan Mau is a senior writer covering the Phoenix Suns and more for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on X via @Brendan_Mau
