Phoenix Suns legend Dick Van Arsdale -- famously known as the "Original Sun" -- has passed away, the team announced Monday. He was 81 years old.
The Suns shared the heartbreaking news just minutes ago ... saying, "Our thoughts are with his friends and family, including his twin brother and Suns teammate, Tom, during this difficult time."
Van Arsdale was a star for the Indiana Hoosiers from 1962-65 ... earning All-American honors alongside his identical twin, Tom.
Dick was selected by the New York Knicks in the second round of the 1965 draft .