How did the Suns get their name?
The Phoenix Suns received their name through a "Name the Team" contest held in 1968, where the winning suggestion, "Suns," was chosen from a massive pool of entries.
The Origin of the Phoenix Suns Name
When the all-new professional basketball franchise was established in Phoenix in 1968, the organization sought a distinctive identity that would resonate with the local community. To achieve this, they launched a public "Name the Team" contest, inviting people to submit their ideas for the team's moniker.
The Contest and Selection Process
The "Name the Team" contest garnered significant public interest, resulting in an impressive total of 28,000 entries. From this extensive collection of submissions, Jerry Colangelo, who was 28 years old at the time and played a key role in the new franchise, was responsible for making the final decision. He ultimately selected "Suns," a name that was simple, memorable, and perfectly suited to the region.
Why "Suns"?
The selection of "Suns" as the team name was a fitting choice for Phoenix, Arizona, a city renowned for its abundant sunshine and warm climate. The name not only established a strong geographical connection but also conveyed a sense of vibrancy, energy, and optimism, reflecting the bright future envisioned for the new professional sports team. This direct association with a prominent local characteristic has made "Suns" an enduring and iconic identity for the franchise.
