Chicago Bulls legend Stacey King dies at 59

Former Chicago Bulls player and longtime television analyst Stacey King has died at the age of 59. King, a key member of Chicago's first championship dynasty in the early 1990s and later one of the most recognizable voices in Bulls broadcasting, passed away suddenly, the franchise confirmed on Sunday.

His death marks the end of a remarkable relationship with the Bulls that lasted more than three decades as both a player and broadcaster.

Bulls pay tribute to King

The Chicago Bulls led tributes following the announcement, with team owner Jerry Reinsdorf describing King as one of the most beloved figures in franchise history.

"Stacey King was a cherished member of the Bulls family and one of the truly unique personalities in our organization's history," Reinsdorf said in a statement.

"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."

King's popularity among supporters grew far beyond his playing career, as his energetic commentary style and passion for the franchise made him a fan favorite on television broadcasts.

NBA Career and Championship Success

The Bulls selected King with the sixth overall pick in the 1989 NBA Draft after an outstanding collegiate career at the University of Oklahoma.

He arrived in Chicago during a transformative period for the franchise and quickly became part of a roster that would dominate the NBA.

During his five seasons with the Bulls, King averaged 6.6 points and 3.3 rebounds per game while helping the team win three consecutive NBA championships:

• NBA Champion (1991)
• NBA Champion (1992)
• NBA Champion (1993)

Although not one of the team's primary stars alongside Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Horace Grant, King played an important role in one of the greatest dynasties in basketball history.

Journey across the NBA

King's time in Chicago ended during the 1993-94 season when he was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves. He later played for several franchises before retiring from professional basketball, including the Minnesota Timberwolves, Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, and Boston Celtics.

His NBA career spanned nearly a decade before he transitioned into broadcasting.

Becoming the voice of the Bulls

While King earned championship rings as a player, many younger Bulls fans came to know him through his work behind the microphone. He joined the Bulls' television coverage during the 2006-07 season, initially contributing to pregame and postgame programming.

Over time, he became the franchise's lead color commentator and developed a strong partnership with play-by-play announcers, most recently alongside Adam Amin.

His enthusiasm, humor, and memorable catchphrases helped make Bulls broadcasts among the most entertaining in the NBA.

King's ability to connect with fans ensured his popularity remained as strong in retirement as it had been during his playing days.

Bulls Chairman reflects on King's Impact

Chicago Bulls chairman Michael Reinsdorf highlighted King's unique connection with supporters and the wider basketball community.

"Stacey loved being a Bull. 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," Reinsdorf said.

"He had a unique gift for bringing people together and making every game feel personal."

The chairman also emphasized King's lasting influence on the organization.

"We were fortunate to know him not only as a player and broadcaster, but as a friend. Stacey genuinely cared about people, and he made our organization better."

A Legacy that transcends Basketball

Few individuals remain connected to one franchise for as long and as passionately as Stacey King did with the Chicago Bulls.

From helping deliver the franchise's first championship dynasty to becoming a beloved television personality, King played a significant role in shaping generations of Bulls memories.

His impact extended beyond statistics and championships, touching fans through his authenticity, humor, and unwavering love for Chicago basketball.

While the Bulls have lost one of their most recognizable figures, King's legacy will remain deeply woven into the history of the franchise.

SportsLigue