Phoenix Suns Ring of Honor

By Jim Marshall

PHOENIX, AZ – Phoenix Suns Ring of Honor will welcome Shawn Marion and Amar’e Stoudemire this season. Both players were elated to receive the franchise’s highest honor. The honor is given to players and others who have made a long-term impact with the organization, community and yes, the Suns fans. Marion becomes the 16th Suns player inducted with an event taking place on December 15. Stoudemire’s induction ceremony will come on March 2, 2024. Both will have their numbers retired.

Some of the Best Teams

Marion and Stoudemire join the Ring of Honor after they helped some of the best teams in the Suns franchise history. Both players were on the team together from the 2004-05 to 2007-08 seasons. They were key contributors who helped the Suns to two Western Conference Finals. They will always be remembered as vital members of the “The Seven Seconds or Less” Suns team that changed the game.

The Matrix

With his athleticism and ability to defend, Shawn “The Matrix” Marion was considered one of the most versatile players in basketball. He played in the Valley from 1999 to 2008, showcasing his talent in 660 games as he averaged 18.4 points and 10 rebounds. He ranks fifth in franchise history in points (12,134), second in rebounds, second in steals, and third in blocks (894). His 706 postseason rebounds are still the most in Suns history. “The Matrix” was also a four-time All-Star selection when he was a member of the Suns.

Marion’s Unpopular Trade

After the 2007 season which saw the Suns make the Western Conference Semifinals only to lose, trade talks between Marion and the Suns began to heat up. After the trade it proved to be an unpopular trade with both Marion and Suns fans. Over twelve post-trade seasons, the Suns missed the playoffs 11 times. With new owner Mat Ishbia reaching out—and Marion’s acceptance of the honor—negates any bad feelings between Marion and the team.

Nicknamed “S.T.A.T.”

Phoenix Suns Ring of Honor now welcomes Amar’e Stoudemire, whose nickname is “S.T.A.T.” (for “Standing Tall and Talented”), He won the Rookie of the Year in 2003. He would go on to play eight seasons for the Suns. Stoudemire played in 516 regular season games with the Suns from 2002 to 2010, averaging 21.4 points and 8.9 rebounds. He ranks seventh in franchise history in points (11,035), third in rebounds (4,613), and fifth in blocks (722) and was a five-time All-Star selection.

Knee Injuries

While knee injuries hampered him physically during his eight seasons, he was a dynamic player. Coupled with his legendary dunks. Stoudemire had a unique desire to get through the defenders to score sparking confidence with his teammates and the fans.

Join other Suns Legends

Phoenix Suns Ring of Honor will welcome Shawn Marion and Amar’e Stoudemire. Former Suns greats Alvan Adams, Charles Barkley, Tom Chambers, Walter Davis, Connie Hawkins, Kevin Johnson, Dan Majerle, Steve Nash, Dick Van Arsdale, and Paul Westphal are already in the ring. Long time GM and owner Jerry Colangelo along with head coaches Cotton Fitzsimmons and John MacLeod. And we cannot forget play-by-play announcer Al McCoy and trainer Joe Proski round out those honored in the ring.

Tickets will go Quickly

Phoenix Suns Ring of Honor welcomes two popular players in Shawn Marion and Amar’e Stoudemire. Remember tickets will go quickly for both of these epic inductions You can purchase single game tickets at Suns.com/Tix.