The University of Oklahoma announced the death of Stacey King, a former standout forward who helped shape the program during the mid‑1980s. King, a native of Lawton, Oklahoma, died at 59, leaving behind a legacy that intertwines college triumphs, NBA championships, and a later career as a beloved broadcaster.
A College Career That Defined an Era
During his tenure with the Sooners from 1985‑86 through 1988‑89, King contributed to a remarkable 115‑29 record. He earned second‑team All‑American honors as a junior and consensus first‑team All‑American as a senior, averaging 26.0 points and 10.1 rebounds. His senior season culminated in a consensus national player of the year award and a No. 1 NCAA tournament seed, a testament to his dominant presence on the court.
King’s impact extended beyond statistics. He was named Big Eight Tournament MVP as a junior and led the conference in career blocked shots with 228. His ability to score in clusters — posting 30 points or more on 16 occasions — made him a feared offensive weapon. The University recognized his contributions by hanging his No. 33 jersey in the Lloyd Noble Center, a permanent tribute to his excellence.
NBA Glory and a Broadcasting Voice
Selected sixth overall in the 1989 NBA Draft by the Chicago Bulls, King became part of a historic dynasty. He was a key reserve on three consecutive championship teams from 1991 to 1993, sharing the court with Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen. After his playing days, King transitioned to a broadcasting role, providing insightful analysis for Bulls telecasts and remaining a familiar voice for fans across the league.
Beyond the hardwood, King’s story reflects a bridge between collegiate passion and professional triumph. His journey from the Sooners’ roar in Oklahoma to the bright lights of the NBA Finals, and finally to the commentary booth, underscores a lifelong commitment to the sport. The university community, teammates, and basketball fans worldwide mourn his loss while celebrating a career that left an indelible mark on the game.