Remembering Al McCoy
• We were saddened to hear of the passing of Al McCoy, the legendary “Voice Of The Phoenix Suns” for 51 years — the longest tenured team broadcaster in NBA history. He was 91 years old. McCoy, the father of veteran radio programmer Mike McCoy, retired after calling his final game on May 11, 2023.
Widely known as the “Dean of NBA broadcasters” for his years of service and unique broadcasting style, McCoy McCoy was the first play-by-play announcer inducted into the Arizona Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2004 and the Arizona Sports Hall of Fame in 2009. In 2007 he earned the Curt Gowdy Media Award from the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, and in 2017, he became the 15th person inducted into the Suns Ring of Honor.
McCoy was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Georgia, a Valley artist who passed away in 2012. He is survived by his three sons and their wives: Mike (Tonya), Jay (Jennis) and Jerry (Teri), seven grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Funeral services are pending.
A statement from the McCoy Family reads, “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.”
In addition to his iconic and heritage role with Skyview Networks’ decades-long partnership with the Suns, Al McCoy was a close friend of Skyview Networks’ executive leadership team and state news division. “Al was a gem of a gentleman, a special person, and the best of the best with his craft,” said Ken Thiele, Founder & Executive Chairman of the Board of Skyview Networks. “His broadcast style made the Phoenix Suns a must-listen for generations of fans. Al will be sorely missed, and I am grateful for the friendship I had with him through the years.”
Jeanne-Marie Condo, President of Network Partnerships & Chief Revenue Officer of Skyview Networks stated, “Al McCoy was kind and genuine in every sense. It was an honor to work with him and the Phoenix Suns over the course of my career at Skyview Networks and KTAR. The respect and trust for Al across the NBA distinctively helped Skyview grow and evolve in the industry, and our gratitude is beyond measure. Al stood out as an Arizona fan-favorite and was a true treasure with his ‘Shazam!’ radio call. He was a man of integrity, treating colleagues and partners with the highest of professional standards. His warm and welcoming style made working together a distinctive experience. He will be dearly missed; his legacy will live on as we emulate his exceptional standard.”
There are more heartfelt tributes to Al McCoy posted at nba.com.
