Stacey King, Bulls Champion and Beloved Chicago Broadcaster, Dies at 59

The sports world woke up Monday feeling deep sadness as the Chicago Bulls and NBA community mourned the death of Stacey King. He was a three-time NBA champion, an iconic broadcaster, and one of the most recognized figures in Bulls history. King passed away at the age of 59.

The Chicago Bulls confirmed King’s passing on Sunday evening after being informed by family members. While the exact cause of death hasn’t been fully disclosed, initial reports suggest it followed an accidental fall at his home.

For over three decades, King was a key part of Chicago’s basketball legacy. He brought Bulls games and the team spirit to life for millions of fans around the world.

From Championship Hardwood to Chicago Living Room

Born on January 29, 1967, in Lawton, Oklahoma, King’s talent as a basketball player was clear from the start. He had a notable college career at the University of Oklahoma, earning All-American honors. In the 1989 NBA Draft, he was picked sixth overall by the Bulls. This marks an important moment for both him and the team.

King quickly became an essential player on the Bulls’ first dynasty. He won three straight NBA championships in 1991, 1992, and 1993 alongside legends like Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen.

“Stacey King was a cherished member of the Bulls family and one of the truly unique personalities in our organization’s history,” said Bulls Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf, according to reports. He reflected the deep respect and affection the team felt for him. “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.”

A Voice That Felt Like Home

After his playing days, King began a new chapter in broadcasting, which would redefine his impact on Chicago and beyond. For nearly 20 years, he was a beloved television analyst and color commentator for Bulls games. He brought warmth, wit, and authenticity to every broadcast.

His approach went beyond simple commentary; it was storytelling. To fans, King became not just a voice but a companion through wins and losses and the emotional journey of basketball seasons. His catchphrases, vibrant personality, and keen insights made even ordinary nights feel special and built connections across generations.

Former Bulls player and broadcast colleague Kendall Gill summed this up well: “He had done it for so many years, so many iconic calls… respected by the Bulls, respected by the media, never threw anybody under the bus but always told the truth about what he saw.”

Tributes From a Grateful City and Sports World

In the hours after the news broke, tributes flowed in from players, broadcasters, and fans. Many highlighted King’s energy, humor, and his gift for bringing people together.

Chicago Sports Network President Michael McCarthy shared a heartfelt message: “Stacey had a unique ability to connect generations of Bulls fans… he brought that same passion, authenticity, and unmistakable personality into the homes of fans for nearly two decades.”

At Wrigley Field, tributes went beyond basketball. A scoreboard displayed an homage that reflected the city’s shared grief and respect for a man whose presence was deeply rooted in Chicago’s sports culture.

Remembering More Than a Career

Stacey King’s legacy isn’t measured just by championships or broadcast ratings. It includes the joy he brought to fans and the genuine spirit he carried in his work. He represented what it means to be both an athlete and a storyteller, leaving an impact that extended beyond statistics.

In every arena he entered, King’s enthusiasm was contagious, and his connection to the community was lasting.

As Chicago grapples with this loss, the echoes of his voice, passionate, hopeful, and undeniably human, will remain in the hearts of Bulls fans for years to come.