Stacey King, an integral member of the Chicago Bulls frontcourt during their first three championships in the 1990s, died suddenly on June 7. He was 59.
More news: Former NBA Guard, Hall of Fame Coach, Dies at 79
King endeared himself to another generation of fans as a color analyst on the Bulls’ television broadcast team for more than two decades. According to David Kaplan of ESPN Chicago, King died as a result of a fall at his home.
“Stacey King was a cherished member of the Bulls family and one of the truly unique personalities in our organization’s history,” Bulls chairman Jerry 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.
“We will miss him deeply and remember the joy, energy, humor, candor and passion he brought to our organization, our broadcasts and our fans every day. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones.”
King averaged 6.4 points and 3.3 rebounds in 16.9 minutes across 438 regular-season games in his NBA career with the Bulls (1989-94), Minnesota Timberwolves (1994-95), Miami Heat (1995-96), Boston Celtics (1997) and Dallas Mavericks (1997).
King coached in the CBA after his NBA playing career before joining the Bulls’ broadcast team as a color analyst on Comcast Sports Chicago.
“A member of the Bulls’ first three NBA championship teams from 1991-93, Stacey played an important role during one of the most historic eras in franchise history,” Bulls president and CEO Michael Reinsdorf said. “What people will remember most is not just what he accomplished on the court but who he was. Stacey brought energy, humor authenticity and heart to everything he did, and people were naturally drawn to him.”
More news: Former Jazz, Knicks Forward Dies at 63
The Bulls chose King with the No. 6 overall pick in the 1989 NBA Draft out of Oklahoma. With the Sooners, King was a consensus All-America first team in 1988-89 as a senior, when he led the nation in rebounds. He was named to the NCAA All-Tournament team as a junior in 1988.
King is survived by his four sons, Erick, Garrett, Brandon and Mason.
For more NBA news, visit Newsweek Sports.
Leave a Reply