Mike D’Antoni insists the "seven seconds or less" era's success demands Shawn Marion’s Hall of Fame induction, cementing the versatile forward's legacy as a defensive powerhouse.
The Phoenix Suns have become one of the most storied franchises in the NBA over their nearly 60-year existence.
Behind appealing uniforms, rolling out historic offenses, and rostering legendary players, the Suns are typically a formidable franchise within the scope of the league.
One of these players is none other than Shawn Marion, who played a central role in one of the most thrilling eras of basketball that the NBA world has seen.
While Marion is widely acknowledged within the Phoenix fandom, the 48-year-old doesn't necessarily receive the same recognition from the outside world.
Recently inducted Hall of Fame coach and Suns legend Mike D'Antoni joined the local "Bickley and Marotta" show on Thursday to discuss Marion's candidacy.
D'Antoni is very adamant about Marion's case, stating that if the "seven seconds or less offense" is what gifted him those honors, they should be bestowed upon Marion as well.
Marion, a top 10 draft pick in 1999, made four All-Star teams and two All-NBA teams with the Suns. This included developing into a dynamic tertiary scorer on special teams, as well as the best defensive player on the entire roster. While his time in Phoenix didn't result in a title, he eventually won one with the Dallas Mavericks in 2011.
D'antoni is correct - Marion's contributions to the game are severely overlooked. Behind an unorthodox jump shot, an untimely trade to the Miami Heat, and other factors, his overall talent doesn't quite receive the appreciation that it should.
There's a very real possibility that Phoenix's run of 50-plus win dominance doesn't take off the ground without Marion. While wings such as Raja Bell and Quentin Richardson were above-average players, they simply didn't possess the all-around mastery that Marion did at his peak.
There are reasons to argue against Marion's Hall of Fame candidacy, including not quite reaching the traditional "win shares" plateau for fellow inductees, as well as only making two All-NBA teams. However, the standard for inducting players is seemingly dropping by the year, and Marion's college/NBA career put together should develop a strong case for a future selection.
Only time will tell if Marion ultimately makes it to Springfield, Massachusetts, however he owns a strong case at this moment that should be heavily considered by those that select representatives of the top honor in the sport.
Until then, Marion remains a crucial piece of Phoenix's Ring of Honor.
