The 2001-02 Phoenix Suns season was a year of significant transition and the beginning of a new era of talent. The team made a major splash by acquiring All-Star point guard Stephon Marbury, who led the team with averages of 20.4 points and 8.1 assists per game, while rising star Shawn Marion continued his ascent with a dominant near double-double season. A major bright spot was the mid-season acquisition of rookie Joe Johnson, who earned NBA All-Rookie Second Team honors and provided a glimpse into the franchise's future. Despite a challenging 36-46 record and a coaching change to Frank Johnson, the Suns remained a competitive force in the Pacific Division and saw the return of a healthy Penny Hardaway to the rotation. A two-time All-Star and All-NBA selection, Stephon Marbury was an elite scoring point guard who averaged over 21 points and 8 assists per game during his three-season tenure with the Phoenix Suns.