The Suns' 1968 Expansion Draft

Lore & Background

Before the roar of the crowd at the Arizona Veterans Memorial Coliseum, there was the quiet tension of the expansion draft. This event marked the Suns' official entry into the National Basketball Association alongside the Seattle SuperSonics. It represented a gamble by ownership to build a competitive team from veterans seeking new opportunities and players overlooked by established franchises. The selections made during this period defined the early identity of the organization. While many names from that specific draft did not become long-term legends, they provided the necessary depth for the team to survive its first season. The success of this draft laid the groundwork for future acquisitions that would eventually transform Phoenix into a Western Conference powerhouse.

In Their Own Story

The sun beat down on the desert outside, but inside the office, the air was cool and filled with smoke. A stack of player rosters sat on the mahogany desk, each name representing a potential future for the new franchise. The owner picked up the phone, his finger hovering over the receiver. This call would determine who wore the orange and purple first. He dialed the number, knowing that in this league, every pick was a promise to the fans waiting back home.

Reader's Guide

The 1968 Expansion Draft is significant because it established the Phoenix Suns as an official NBA franchise before they ever tipped off in a regular-season game. Historically, this draft allowed the team to acquire experienced players rather than just rookies, aiming for immediate competitiveness. However, like many expansion teams of that era, the initial roster faced challenges adapting to the new system and building chemistry. This event is also notable for occurring during a period of NBA growth, as the league expanded westward beyond its traditional East Coast strongholds. It set the stage for the franchise's future success in the Pacific Division. Fans often look back at this draft when discussing the team's origins, noting how it paved the way for the legendary eras that followed in the 1970s and 80s.

Did You Know?

• The Suns entered the league alongside the Seattle SuperSonics during this expansion period.
• Their inaugural home games were played at the Arizona Veterans Memorial Coliseum.
• This draft preceded the arrival of future Hall of Famers who would define the franchise later.
• It marked the first time professional basketball was officially headquartered in Arizona.