Stacey King, a key player on the Chicago Bulls’ three consecutive NBA championship teams in the early 1990s and later an Emmy-winning broadcaster who became a beloved voice for the franchise, has died at the age of 59.
The Bulls organization announced his passing on Sunday, confirming they were notified by a family member.
No further details regarding his death were immediately made available.
King was an integral part of the Bulls dynasty that secured NBA titles from 1991 to 1993.
The 6-foot-11 forward/center began his professional career with Chicago, selected sixth overall out of Oklahoma in the 1989 draft. Over five seasons with the Bulls, he averaged 6.6 points and 3.3 rebounds.
His eight-season NBA career also included stints with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Miami Heat, Boston Celtics, and Dallas Mavericks, concluding with career averages of 6.4 points and 3.3 rebounds.
Following his playing days, King transitioned to the broadcast booth, where he spent more than two decades as a commentator for Bulls games.
He endeared himself to a new generation of supporters with his distinctive calls and memorable nicknames, earning an Emmy for his work.
Bulls chairman Jerry Reinsdorf paid tribute to King, stating, “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.”
Bulls president and CEO Michael Reinsdorf echoed the sentiment, highlighting King’s profound connection to the team. “Stacey loved being a Bull,” he said.
“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.”
