Stacey King, a cherished figure in the world of basketball and a former Chicago Bulls player, has died at the age of 59. Known for his pivotal role in the Bulls’ three consecutive NBA championships and his engaging presence as a television broadcaster for the team, his passing marks a significant loss.
The news of King’s death was announced on Sunday afternoon by NBA Insider Shams Charania, leaving the basketball community and Bulls fans in mourning.
At this time, the cause of his death has not been publicly disclosed.
King was a vital part of the Chicago Bulls during their 1990s era of dominance. He was selected as the sixth overall pick in the 1989 NBA Draft and contributed significantly to the team before moving to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the 1993-94 season.
Over his eight seasons in the NBA, King was a key player, sharing the court with legends like Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen as the Bulls clinched the championship titles in 1991, 1992, and 1993.
Although his playing days ended, King continued to make an impact as a beloved commentator for Bulls TV broadcasts, endearing himself to a new generation of fans with his insightful commentary and vibrant personality.
Stacey King, a three-time NBA champion with the Chicago Bulls and a beloved longtime television broadcaster for the franchise, has passed away at the age of 59
King played eight seasons in the league and played alongside Bulls legend Michael Jordan during the Bulls’ historic 1991, 1992 and 1993 championship runs
King stayed with the franchise during their most dominant period, before being traded to the Timberwolves during the 1993–94 campaign
Tributes have already begun pouring in from heartbroken fans online, who are mourning the tragic loss of a franchise icon.
In a statement, Bulls owner Jerry Reinsdorf said: ‘Stacey King was a cherished member of the Bulls family and one of the truly unique personalities in our organization’s history.
‘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.’
Meanwhile, team president and COO Michael Reinsdorf said: ‘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.
‘He had a unique gift for bringing people together and making every game feel personal. Whether it was through a broadcast, a conversation, or a photo with a fan, Stacey made people feel seen and valued.
‘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.
‘We will miss him dearly, and his impact, memory and legacy will remain a part of the Chicago Bulls forever.’
While his playing career cemented his place in Chicago folklore, King found a new generation of fans in his post-playing career – as a commentator for Bulls TV broadcasts
Fans took to social media to pay homage to the former star and broadcaster.
‘Bulls games with no Stacey King doesn’t even sound right man, I’m so hurt rn [right now],’ one fan wrote on X.
‘Breaks my heart. Stacey King was a legend on the mic. He made so many miserable games fun to watch and the fun games even better. Definition of irreplaceable. Nicest guy ever as well meeting him in person. Rest in peace legend,’ another said.
During his eight-season playing career – that included stops with the Timberwolves, Heat, Celtics and Mavericks – King averaged 6.4 points and 3.3 rebounds.
However, it was the start of his career with the Bulls were he found most his success.
King played all 82 games as a rookie, after being the sixth overall pick in the 1989 NBA Draft, coming off the bench to earn NBA All-Rookie Second Team honors.
He averaged 8.9 points and 4.7 rebounds while playing alongside Michael Jordan as the Bulls reeled off three consecutive championships from 1991 to 1993.
King later went into coaching, taking a job as the head coach of the Rockford Lightning of the Continental Basketball Association for the 2001-02 season.
