Phoenix Suns owner Robert Sarver joined us this past weekend in his first interview since he pulled off the blockbuster trade that netted him superstar center Shaquille O'Neal. Sarver told us how the deal went down and his motivation for making the deal. Sarver made an interesting point during our conversation. He paid more money ($401M) than anyone ever to purchase an NBA team, but since that time he has also spent more money on player contracts than any other owner in the NBA. Because he is a banker he has a reputation for being "cheap", but as he pointed out, he's been anything but since purchasing the franchise.

He also discussed the controversial suspensions of Suns players Amare Stoudemire and Boris Diaw in last year's playoff series versus San Antonio.

Finally, Sarver gave us the details regarding an outdoor pre-season game the Suns plan on playing this October as well as thoughts on hosting the 2009 NBA All-Star game in Phoenix.

To listen to the interview with Sarver, click here.