Phoenix Suns broadcaster, Al McCoy, served the hoops community for over 50 years! McCoy, known for famous catchphrases like ‘Wham Bam Slam!’ he was the longest-tenured broadcaster in NBA history. Surely enough, he’d seen all the ups and downs of the franchise. Emerging from the small Iowa farming town of Williams, to being a DJ, to falling in love with radio, he had experienced it all. After his passing at 91, the Suns’ community, and not one but many hoops legends, mourned his loss with heartfelt tributes.

It didn’t take long for the league to release the statement after Al McCoy’s passing, as Adam Silver remembered the long-time Phoenix broadcaster, “Al McCoy was a master of his craft. As the longest-tenured team broadcaster in NBA history, he set a high standard throughout his 51 seasons calling Phoenix Suns basketball. He entertained generations of fans with his distinct delivery and unbridled love for the game and was a beloved friend to so many of us in the NBA community. I send my heartfelt condolences to Al’s family and friends and the entire Suns organization.”

Before joining the Suns as their primary broadcaster in 1972, McCoy had a roller coaster of a career, switching from baseball to football, to even hockey. McCoy was the Phoenix Giants’ broadcaster for a long time as the Drake University alumni did not move to the MLB’s San Francisco Giants because of the team potentially moving in the future. Nevertheless, when it came to basketball, McCoy did play-by-play for the Arizona State Sun Devils’ basketball.

Following the NBA Commissioner’s statement, Devin Booker had a few words to say about McCoy. The hooper had developed a strong bond with the sportscaster and even signed a jersey for the veteran in 2022 after the Suns set the franchise record for the most wins in a single season. “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.”

The NBA had announced its move to Phoenix in 1969 and just a few years later, Al McCoy agreed to a contract with the Suns as the Vice President of Broadcasting. Not only did he handle the play-by-play for the franchise, but also helped them with selling advertising. One of McCoy’s major highlights includes the 1976 NBA Finals. While he witnessed history, Al also had to deal with the Celtics fans, who sat right beside him. Not to mention, one of them even passed out on his lap when Garfield Heard hit the game-tying jump shot to send the game to the third overtime, the first time in history!

Al McCoy’s famous calls and catchphrases were also unique at the time. Well, we’re all used to Mike Breen’s ‘Bang!‘ calls, but back then, McCoy’s ‘SHAZAM!’ was more famous among the community. His other phrases would include ‘Wham Bam Slam!’ for slam dunks, ‘Swish-a-roo for Two!’ for two-point field goals, and more. Of course, Al received several awards throughout his career, including the Phoenix Suns Ring of Honor. The Suns will remember the legendary broadcaster’s 51 seasons, as they move forward.

Charles Barkley and Steve Nash join the tribute web with heartfelt messages to honor Al McCoy’s legacy

Charles Barkley, or as McCoy would call him, Sir Charles, weighed in on the legendary broadcaster’s passing. “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,” the Chuckster said.

Steve Nash, who won his two MVPs as a Sun, also honored McCoy. “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,” Nash added.

Now, being a part of the franchise for 51 seasons is a defining feat. It wouldn’t be surprising to see if the Suns look to pay Al a major tribute on their jerseys this upcoming season.

Al McCoy called his last game on May 11, 2023. The long-time broadcaster established his name among other all-time play-by-play commentators in league history. The NBA, the Phoenix Suns, and McCoy’s family will remember and honor his iconic career.