On this joyous day, we celebrate a significant milestone from 58 years ago when the Phoenix Suns and the Milwaukee Bucks were granted franchise licenses by the National Basketball Association (NBA). This momentous decision brought professional basketball to both cities, creating opportunities for countless fans to rally behind their teams. The Suns have become known as the ultimate “nearly men” of the NBA, boasting the second-highest franchise win percentage of any team that has yet to clinch a championship. Meanwhile, the Bucks engaged their fans in a delightful naming contest, ultimately selecting “Bucks” over the more popular choice of “Robins.” Let’s take a look at some highlights from the rich history of these two franchises… (1968)
The Milwaukee Bucks hold the unique distinction of being the only NBA team to win championships in both the Eastern and Western Conferences. They’ve enjoyed impressive streaks of division dominance during various periods, notably from 1971-1974, 1980-1986, and most recently from 2021-2023. One of the most iconic figures to don the Bucks jersey is Kareem Abdul-Jabaar, who played a pivotal role in leading the team to their 1971 NBA Championship victory, sweeping the Baltimore Bullets with a flawless 4-0 record.
In a fun twist, the Arizona Republic newspaper hosted a contest to name the new Phoenix basketball team, and “Suns” emerged as the favorite among options like Scorpions, Rattlers, Thunderbirds, Wranglers, Mavericks, Tumbleweeds, Mustangs, and Cougars.
After a heart-wrenching loss in the 1976 NBA Finals, the Suns faced a rebuilding phase throughout the 1980s. However, in 1988, they struck gold by acquiring Kevin Johnson, who partnered with future Hall of Famer Charles Barkley. This dynamic duo propelled the Suns into an era of high-scoring excitement, although the team still fell short of capturing the coveted championship. The arrival of free-agent Steve Nash in 2004 reignited the Suns’ competitive spirit, leading them to challenge for playoff success throughout the decade, yet again without securing a title.
In other delightful happenings on this date, we commemorate 95 years since jazz trumpeter Clyde McCoy recorded “Sugar Blues” for Colombia Records. Originally penned in 1919 by Clarence Williams with lyrics by Lucy Fletcher, McCoy’s unique wah-wah trumpet style turned this song into his signature piece, selling an astounding 14 million copies worldwide!
It is widely believed that McCoy pioneered the wah-wah trumpet technique by fluttering a Harmon mute within his trumpet bell. The popularity of his sound led to a partnership with the King Instrument Company, which began manufacturing the device. His influence extended far and wide, inspiring numerous musicians, including the legendary Jimi Hendrix, particularly in his creation of “Voodoo Child (Slight Return).” Interestingly, in 1967, a similar effect was adapted for electric guitars with the introduction of the Vox “Clyde McCoy” Wah-Wah Pedal, although McCoy himself was not involved in its development. You can listen to the captivating song here… (1931)
Lastly, we celebrate the birth of one of the English Romanticist movement’s greatest poets, Lord Byron, who entered the world 239 years ago today in London. Born into a life of privilege, Byron often felt at odds with his affluent background. Like many renowned artists, he traveled extensively, indulging in affairs and weaving them into his poetic works, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire to this day.
