Phoenix Suns · Franchise era 3 of 7
Barkley and the 1993 Finals: the Phoenix Suns story
The story in one sentence
A revitalized roster became elite before Barkley's arrival; his MVP season then carried Phoenix to 62 wins and the Finals.
An MVP completes a fearless contender
Charles Barkley, Kevin Johnson and Dan Majerle gave the era its recognizable core.
Its ending created the conditions for the bridge to seven seconds.
Timeline
How it unfolded
Before 1988–89
What came before
The Suns remained a frequent playoff team behind fluid offense before off-court turmoil forced a broad reset.
1990
Western Conference Finals: Phoenix Suns vs Portland Trail Blazers
- 12TradeJune 17, 1992
June 17, 1992
The Charles Barkley trade that transformed Phoenix overnight
The Suns believed one forceful rebounder and scorer could elevate a strong supporting cast. Philadelphia accepted three starters after its relationship with Barkley had run its course.
To PHX
To PHIDraftPICKround assetBarkley to PhoenixPHX receives Charles BarkleyPHI receives Jeff Hornacek, Tim Perry, Andrew Lang4 original assets · 1 outcomes tracedOpen trade → 1993
Western Conference Finals: Phoenix Suns vs Seattle SuperSonics
After 1995–96
What came next
Phoenix remained competitive through changing backcourts and drafted the explosive big man who would define its next style.
The core