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Basketball legend Connie Hawkins returned to the Suns in 1992 as community relations representative. In addition to making appearances, "Hawk" works with the City of Phoenix conducting summer basketball clinics at America West Arena. He also plays an integral part in the Suns TeamUp Program. His professional career began in 1961 with the ABL's Pittsburgh Rens where, as a 19-year-old rookie, he was the league's MVP. He then dazzled fans for four seasons with the Harlem Globetrotters before joining the ABA's Pittsburgh Pipers in 1967 where he earned league MVP honors. Hawk joined the NBA in 1969-70 after Phoenix won his rights in a coin flip with Seattle in 1969. He played four seasons in the Valley, was an All-Star each season, and averaged 20.5 points and 9.0 rebounds. Hawk then played two seasons for the Lakers and one with Atlanta. Hawk's jersey (42) was retired on November 19, 1976, the first Suns player to be so honored, and he earned a place in the Basketball Hall of Fame on May 11, 1992. Born July 17, 1942 in Brooklyn, Hawk attended Boys High and was a 1960 All-American. He also earned two letters in track. He teamed with John McEnroe in the NIKE Celebrity Doubles tennis exhibition in 1994, and with Todd Martin in the Gila River Tennis Jackpot in 1995. | 