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Stacey King, a three-time NBA champion and broadcaster for the Chicago Bulls, has died, the team announced Sunday. He was 59.
Bulls executives Jerry and Michael Reinsdorf released statements about King’s death.
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Stacey King of the Chicago Bulls looks to pass the ball against the Washington Bullets during an NBA game at the Capital Center in Landover, Md., circa 1990. (Focus on Sports/Getty Images)
“Stacey King was a beloved member of the Bulls family and one of the most unique personalities in the history of our organization,” said Bulls chairman Jerry Reinsdorf. “His connection to Chicago, the Bulls and our fans spanned more than three decades – first as a player and later as the unmistakable voice that helped bring Bulls basketball home to generations of fans.
“We will miss him deeply and remember the joy, energy, humor, openness and passion he brought to our organization, our broadcasts and our fans every day. Our thoughts go out to his family and his loved ones.”
Michael Reinsdorf, the team’s president and CEO, remembered King as a player who “loved being a Bull.”
“You could feel it in everything he did — the way he played, the way he called plays and the way he connected with our fans,” he said. “He had a unique gift for bringing people together and making every game feel personal. He brought an energy and love for the game that came through in every broadcast, helping fans feel connected to our team.
Stacey King of the Chicago Bulls defends Bill Laimbeer of the Detroit Pistons during an NBA game at the Palace of Auburn Hills in Auburn Hills, Mich., circa 1990. (Focus on Sports/Getty Images)
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“Whether it was through a broadcast, a conversation or a photo with a fan, Stacey made people feel seen and appreciated. We were fortunate to know him not only as a player and broadcaster, but as a friend. Stacey truly cared about people and he made our organization better. He will be greatly missed and his impact, memory and legacy will remain a part of the Chicago Bulls forever.”
Chicago selected King with the 6th overall pick in the 1989 draft out of Oklahoma.
He played four full seasons with the Bulls before joining the Minnesota Timberwolves, Miami Heat, Boston Celtics and Dallas Mavericks during his career.
King was on the Bulls during their first three-peat run from 1990 to 1993. He averaged 6.4 points in 438 career games.
Stacey King of the Chicago Bulls takes a foul shot against the Washington Bullets during an NBA game at the Capital Center in Landover, Md., circa 1990. (Focus on Sports/Getty Images)
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After King retired, he began his radio career in 2006. He was with CSN Chicago and the Chicago Sports Network.
