CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – The Phoenix Suns have announced they’ll be inducting former Clarksville High and NBA star Shawn “The Matrix” Marion into the organization’s Ring of Honor on Dec. 15 when the team hosts the New York Knicks.

Marion played 16 seasons in the NBA and spent the majority of his time with the Phoenix Suns, who drafted the 6-foot-7 forward out of UNLV with the 9th overall pick in the 1999 NBA Draft.

During his time with the Suns, Marion averaged 18.4 points, 10 rebounds, 2 steals and 37.8 minutes per game, according to Basketball-Reference. In addition, he helped lead the Suns to 7 playoff appearances during his nine years with the team, including two appearances in the Western Conference Finals.

When comparing his career to other draftees from the 1999 draft class, Marion ranks first in rebounds, second in points, third in games played, third in minutes played and first in win shares, according to Basketball-Reference.

Marion also accomplished the following accolades during his NBA career, according to Basketball-Reference.

  • NBA Champion with the Dallas Mavericks in 2011.
  • Selected to 4 NBA All-Star games.
  • Selected to the All-Rookie Second Team in 1999-00.
  • Selected to the All-NBA Third Team in 2004-05 and 2005-06.
  • Received MVP votes in 2004-05 and 2005-06
  • 75.6% probability of making NBA Hall of Fame.

Marion won’t be the only Suns legend to be inducted into the organization’s Ring of Honor during this upcoming season of play. The team also announced Marion’s former teammate Amar’e Stoudemire will be inducted as well.

‘Shawn changed the game’

When asked about the team’s two former players, Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia had the following to say to NBA.com.

“Shawn and Amar’e are two of the very best to ever wear a Phoenix Suns uniform. Shawn changed the game with his elite versatility and Amar’e was one of the most electrifying players the league has ever seen. Shawn and Amar’e helped define the Suns and inspired generations of fans, and our Suns family is incomplete without them in the Ring of Honor.

“As we embark on the new era of Suns basketball it is a priority that we remain connected to our storied history. We are excited to celebrate Shawn and Amar’e and properly recognize their incredible contributions and achievements.”