The Suns revealed plans to retire the jersey numbers of franchise legends Shawn Marion and Amar’e Stoudemire next season, and Phoenix’s current franchise player was very excited about it.
“Matrix and STAT, Much deserved, Appreciate y’all !!” Devin Booker posted on social media on Wednesday shortly after the news broke.
“Shawn and Amar’e are two of the very best to ever wear a Phoenix Suns uniform,” owner Mat Ishbia said in a statement. “Shawn changed the game with his elite versatility and Amar’e was one of the most electrifying players the league has ever seen. Shawn and Amar’e helped define the Suns and inspired generations of fans, and our Suns family is incomplete without them in the Ring of Honor. As we embark on the new era of Suns basketball, it is a priority that we remain connected to our storied history. We are excited to celebrate Shawn and Amar’e and properly recognize their incredible contributions and achievements.”
Marion and Stoudemire were both humbled by the recognition of their former organization.
“This is amazing to be recognized by the Suns family in this way,” Marion said. “The fans in Phoenix are one-of-a-kind, and this city will always be a part of me. My time with the Suns was special and I am looking forward to being inducted into the Ring of Honor.”
“I bleed purple and orange, making this a tremendous honor to be inducted,” Stoudemire said. “My best and most transformative years came in Phoenix with the Suns. I have so much love for Suns fans and appreciation for the love they have always shown me. I am excited to reconnect with the fanbase in joining the Ring of Honor.”
In nine seasons with the Suns, Marion averaged 18.4 points and 10.0 rebounds on 48.1% shooting. He earned two-time All-NBA honors and was a four-time All-Star in Phoenix.
In eight seasons in Phoenix, Stoudemire averaged 21.4 points, 8.9 rebounds and 1.4 blocks on 54.4% shooting from the floor. He was named to four All-NBA teams, was a five-time All-Star and was named the 2002-’03 Rookie of the Year with the Suns.
