WEB: The Phoenix Suns Gorilla

A History of Mischief and Delight

Origins in the Winter of 1980

In the winter of 1980, the Phoenix Suns arrived with a peculiar mascot: a mischievous gorilla. While the timing of his arrival may not be as captivating, the Gorilla's impact on the franchise and the NBA has been nothing short of extraordinary.

For the first decade of their existence, the Suns lacked an official mascot. However, in 1980, David Adickes, a 7'4" former basketball player, was hired to bring to life the Gorilla, a character that would embody the spirit of the team and the city of Phoenix.

In the years since, the Gorilla has become an iconic figure in the NBA. His antics on the court, including dancing, dunking, and entertaining the crowd, have made him one of the most beloved mascots in professional sports. Beyond the arena, the Gorilla has also become a symbol of the Phoenix Suns and the city itself, appearing in commercials, television shows, and even movies.

While the Gorilla's arrival in the winter of 1980 may not have been as intriguing as what he has accomplished since, it marked the beginning of an era of joy and entertainment for Phoenix Suns fans. His legacy as a mischievous and lovable mascot will continue to entertain generations of fans to come.