A THREE-TIME NBA champion turned cult hero broadcaster has died at the age of 59.
Stacey King, a former title-winning forward, passed away with his NBA franchise confirming the news on Sunday.
Stacey King has died aged 59 Credit: Getty
His NBA franchise confirming the news on Sunday. Credit: Getty
A cause of death has not yet been confirmed for the man who became an Emmy-winning fan favourite on the mic and a defining voice of Bulls basketball for generations.
King was a key part of the legendary championship era with the Chicago Bulls, winning three straight NBA titles between 1991 and 1993 alongside Michael Jordan’s dynasty.
Standing 6-foot-11, King averaged 6.4 points and 3.3 rebounds across an eight-season NBA career that also included spells with the Timberwolves, Heat, Celtics and Mavericks.
But it was in Chicago where he became a household name – first as a high-energy role player, and later as a broadcaster.
He spent more than two decades bringing Bulls basketball into living rooms with his trademark humour, energy and instantly recognisable calls.
Tributes poured in from across the organisation, with Bulls owner and chairman Jerry Reinsdorf leading the emotional statements.
“Stacey King was a cherished member of the Bulls family and one of the truly unique personalities in our organization’s history,” Bulls owner and chairman Jerry Reinsdorf said in a statement.
He said: “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 into the homes of generations of fans.
“We will miss him deeply and remember the joy, energy, humour, candour and passion that he brought to our organization, our broadcasts, and our fans every day.”
King’s influence on the franchise stretched far beyond his playing days, becoming a defining personality in the post-dynasty era as a commentator whose colourful style made him a fan favourite.
“Stacey loved being a Bull,” team president and CEO Michael Reinsdorf said in a statement.
You could feel it in everything he did – the way he played, the way he called games, and the way he connected with our fans. He had a unique gift for bringing people together and making every game feel personal.
“Stacey genuinely cared about people, and he made our organization better. We will miss him dearly, and his impact, memory and legacy will remain part of the Chicago Bulls forever.”
Before his NBA fame, King was a standout at Oklahoma, helping them reach the national title game in 1988 before becoming a first-team All-American and Big Eight Player of the Year the following season.
Oklahoma later retired his No. 33 jersey in 2008 in recognition of his college dominance.
King also spent time in coaching after his playing career, taking charge of the Rockford Lightning in the Continental Basketball Association for the 2001–02 season.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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