Three-Time NBA Champion Stacey King Dies at 59
Former Chicago Bulls forward Stacey King, a three-time NBA champion who later became an Emmy-winning broadcaster for the franchise, has died at the age of 59.
The NBA confirmed King’s passing in an official statement, while the Chicago Bulls announced he died on Sunday after being informed by a family member. No additional details were immediately released.
NBA and Bulls Pay Tribute to a Beloved Figure
In its statement, the NBA said: “The NBA family mourns the passing of Stacey King, a three-time NBA champion and longtime Chicago Bulls television analyst. Stacey made his mark on the game as a player, coach and commentator. For more than 20 years on Bulls broadcasts, his passion, knowledge and unmistakable energy resonated with generations of fans. We extend our deepest condolences to Stacey’s family and friends and the Bulls organization.”
Bulls chairman Jerry Reinsdorf described King as “a cherished member of the Bulls family” and one of the most distinctive personalities in the organisation’s history. He highlighted King’s long-standing connection with the franchise, noting his impact first as a player and later as a broadcaster whose voice helped bring Bulls basketball into homes for generations of fans.
Reinsdorf added that King will be remembered for the “joy, energy, humor, candor and passion” he brought to the organisation, its broadcasts, and its supporters.
From Chicago Draft Pick to Three-Time Champion
King began his NBA career with the Chicago Bulls, who selected the 6-foot-11 forward/centre out of Oklahoma with the sixth overall pick in the 1989 NBA Draft. He was part of the Bulls’ championship runs from 1991 to 1993, playing alongside the franchise’s iconic core. During his five seasons in Chicago, he averaged 6.6 points and 3.3 rebounds per game.
Across an eight-year NBA career that also included stints with Minnesota, Miami, Boston, and Dallas, King averaged 6.4 points and 3.3 rebounds.
Broadcasting Career Made Him a Bulls Fan Favourite
After his playing career, King returned to the Bulls as a broadcaster and spent more than two decades as a television analyst, becoming a familiar voice for a new generation of fans.
Bulls president and CEO Michael Reinsdorf said King’s passion for the franchise was evident in everything he did — from his playing days to his broadcasting career. He described King as someone who had a rare ability to connect with fans, making every game feel personal and bringing energy and warmth to every broadcast.
Reinsdorf added that King made people feel “seen and valued,” whether through broadcasts, conversations, or fan interactions. He also said King was not only a colleague but a friend, and that his legacy will remain part of the Bulls organisation “forever.”
Known for Energy, Nicknames and Signature Catchphrases
King was widely known for his animated commentary, memorable catchphrases, and unique nicknames, often lighting up broadcasts when the Bulls made big plays.
Speaking last month on his “Gimme the Hot Sauce” podcast — a reference to one of his signature on-air expressions — King reflected on his passion for broadcasting. “We enjoy what we do. It’s a fun job. It never seems like work for me. Every night, I go to work, win, lose or draw, I’m having fun.”
