Al McCoy, who served as the voice of the Phoenix Suns for more than 50 seasons, has passed away.
The Suns paid tribute to McCoy following his passing.
“Phoenix Suns Ring of Honor member and legendary radio play-by-play announcer Al McCoy has passed away peacefully at the age of 91,” the statement on NBA.com said. “The longest tenured team broadcaster in NBA history, McCoy was widely known as the ‘dean of NBA broadcasters’ for his years of service and unique broadcasting style. He served 51 seasons as “The Voice of the Suns,” calling his first game on September 27, 1972 and his last on May 11, 2023.
“McCoy’s unforgettable calls of the most memorable moments in Suns history, including three trips to the NBA Finals, and his trademark phrases from ‘Shazam!’ to ‘Zing Go the Strings’ to ‘Heartbreak Hotel’ have cemented his legacy throughout Arizona and the NBA. His distinctive voice, vivid descriptions and deep knowledge of the game created a unique style that remained a staple for more than five decades. McCoy will forever be known as the Voice of the Phoenix Suns.”
Included in that were comments from Suns owner Mat Ishbia, coach Mike Budenholzer, star Devin Booker and past stars Steve Nash and Charles Barkley.
McCoy’s family also paid tribute to him.
“As a father, he taught us the value of respect, loyalty, hard work, and love – both on and off the court,” the family statement. “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.”
The Suns paid tribute to McCoy on X, formerly Twitter, as well.
— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) September 21, 2024
McCoy’s final broadcast came when the Suns were eliminated by the eventual NBA champion Denver Nuggets in Game 6 of the Western Conference Semifinals in 2023. After the game, he signed off by saying in part, “I just want to say thank you for 51 wonderful years and allowing me to bring the story of the Suns in the NBA to you. It’s been a great ride.”
In addition to his work with the Suns, McCoy also served as an announcer for Arizona State University and the Arizona Diamondbacks as well as the Phoenix Giants (longtime Minor League affiliate of the San Francisco Giants before the formation of the Diamondbacks) and the Phoenix Roadrunners, a team in the former Western Hockey League.
McCoy’s many honors include the Curt Gowdy Media Award, given to him by the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2007.
