Chicago Bulls broadcaster Stacey King died Sunday at the age of 59, the team announced in a statement.
A three-time NBA champion during the first half of the 1990’s Bulls dynasty, King was a beloved member of the Bulls organization who provided color commentary for the team’s local broadcast affiliate — moving from CSN Chicago to NBC Sports Chicago and finally CHSN — for the last two decades.
Known for catchphrases and nicknames that stuck to players for their entire careers, King approached broadcasting with the same animated, enthusiastic presence that defined him on the court.
“Stacey loved being a Bull,” 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. He brought an energy and love for the game that came through in every broadcast, helping fans feel connected to our team.”
“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.”
Selected by Chicago with the No. 6 pick in the 1989 draft, King spent five seasons with the Bulls that coalesced in the first three rings won during the dynasty era in the 90’s. After being traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves in 1994, King played several more years in the NBA and abroad, then pivoted to a brief stint as a coach before finally landing on his next calling as a broadcaster in Chicago.
King quickly earned the affection of Bulls fans for his ability to transform a quick turn of phrase into a definitive piece of lore for a storied franchise. Over the last 20 years, his witticisms — from “Give me the hot sauce” to “I want to go higher!” — became woven into the tapestry of what it meant to be a Bulls fan in Chicago.
The news of his death was met with shock and sadness from fans, players and fellow broadcasters around the NBA.
King is survived by his sons Erick, Garrett, Brandon and Mason.
This is a developing story.
