After establishing himself as both a player and coach in Italy, Mike D’Antoni helped revolutionize the NBA during his time with the Phoenix Suns. His team, famously known as the “Seven Seconds or Less” Suns, changed the way offense was played through a faster pace, pick-and-roll, pace and space, and an increased emphasis on the three-point shot.
During his Hall of Fame induction speech, D’Antoni reflected on some of the key players from that team, including Amar’e Stoudemire and Steve Nash.
“In Phoenix, we had incredible talent — Shawn Marion, Quentin Richardson, Boris Diaw, Raja Bell, Joe Johnson, Grant Hill, and this guy, Amar’e Stoudemire. Man, Amar’e, you posterized so many people, it’s crazy,” D’Antoni said. “Then we signed this long-haired Canadian soccer player — Steve Nash. Steve, I’m proud that your two MVP titles were won with the Suns. All of you guys are why coaching is so rewarding.”
D’Antoni also highlighted the courage shown by his players and staff in embracing what was, at the time, an innovative style of basketball: “Our players and coaches had the courage to embrace a different way of playing, and together, we influenced the game.”
The former coach then summed up the legacy of his career: “The Hall of Fame is about leaving an impact and mine is simple. We made the game a little faster, a little brighter, and a heck of a lot more fun. Luckiest man in the world. Spent my life doing what I love alongside people I love.”
Jerry Colangelo, Bob McAdoo, Steve Nash, Amar’e Stoudemire and Rod Thorn served as D’Antoni’s presenters during the ceremony.
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