The city of Glendale, in conjunction with the Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury Foundation, unveiled the newly named Al McCoy Memorial Park and SHAZAM! Court yesterday. Nestled near North 51st and West Olive avenues, the park pays homage to the local legend and voice of the Phoenix Suns, broadcaster Al McCoy, who had made the Glendale community his home for over half a century.
The dedication ceremony was a colorful affair, with the Phoenix Suns Gorilla and dancers, McCoy's sons and grandchildren, all in attendance. Adding to the fanfare, Copper Canyon High School's band and sports teams, along with their mascot, contributed to the event's vibrancy. Glendale City Manager Kevin Phelps underscored the significance of the new facilities, "Al McCoy Memorial Park and SHAZAM! Court will be enjoyed by people of all ages, and we are honored to continue his legacy in this special way," as mentioned during the dedication.
Al McCoy's reach extended far beyond just broadcasting; he was a fixture of Arizona basketball. Eddie Johnson, Phoenix Suns Color Analyst and former player, expressed deep appreciation for McCoy's dedication to the team and the state, "To carry on Al’s legacy through a basketball court and in the neighborhood, he loved so much, it doesn’t get any better," he told the gathered crowd. McCoy's son, Jerry, also reflected on his father's bond with Glendale, praising the local charm and community spirit Al held dear, as reported by the Glendale City.
The park and court come equipped with a variety of amenities designed to cater to the community. Features include a new playground, updated sand volleyball court, energy-efficient LED lighting, and enhanced irrigation systems. Glendale didn't just put McCoy’s name on any run-of-the-mill park – but chose an 8-acre spread to give ample space for recreation and reflection. According to the official announcement, "We’re honored to work with our partners at the Phoenix Suns and Mercury Foundation and to be able to honor Al McCoy. This park and basketball court are the core of the Foundation’s work, which is to use basketball to help bring the community together." Former Glendale city councilmember Ian Hugh reflected on McCoy's influence, with a touch of nostalgia for his inimitable presence, noting how many fans turned down their televisions in favor of McCoy's radio charm.
The legacy of McCoy, who retired in 2023 after an illustrious 51-year career with the Suns, will continue to inspire and entertain sports enthusiasts and the wider community alike. Al McCoy Memorial Park represents not just a nod to a storied career but a vibrant hub for new generations to play, grow, and maybe, in the spirit of McCoy's legendary calls, even dream of their own Heartbreak Hotel moments.
