Legendary Broadcaster Al McCoy Honored by Suns
PHOENIX -- Though the Phoenix Suns were unable to defeat the Los Angeles Clippers, today still felt like a win for basketball lovers in the Valley.
During halftime of the team's 119-114 loss to the Clippers, legendary broadcaster Al McCoy was honored by the team with a special presentation in what will be McCoy's final season with the team after 51 years.
Joined by people such as Devin Booker, Mat Ishbia and Jerry Colangelo were present on the court with McCoy, which was followed by an official jersey with his last name and the No. 51 presented in a case.
Though it's his last season calling games at the Footprint Center, McCoy has his eyes on the prize:
After the game, Suns coach Monty Williams spoke on how special of a person McCoy is.
"He's just the standard as long as he's done it - what was it, 50 years? 51 years," said Williams following the game.
"I used to do radio with him when the building was different in the office and his voice was just this booming voice. I thought somebody was going to come into the office that was about 6-10. He would sit down and we'd talk and I soon found out just based on how people revered him here, how important he's been to the fabric of the Suns and to this community. It's pretty cool that he got recognized today and I'm grateful that I had a chance to work with him."
Suns guard Saben Lee - who grew up in the Valley - also touched on McCoy following the game.
"It was great, just being here for so long. I know growing up when I was a little kid coming to the games and stuff hearing him, it's nice to still be able to hear that voice. It's really cool. I like it a lot," he said.
McCoy is set to hang it up whenever the Suns' postseason concludes - Phoenix hopes that can end in a parade in downtown after winning the NBA Finals.
The Suns will play Game 1 against the Clippers next Sunday, though a time isn't yet available.
