A Voice That Defined a Generation
The Chicago Bulls announced Sunday that former player and longtime television analyst Stacey King has died at the age of 59. The news was shared by the franchise on its official channels, prompting an outpouring of grief from the basketball community.
King’s basketball résumé includes three consecutive NBA championships with Chicago in the early 1990s. As a power forward and center, he contributed to the team’s dominance alongside Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen, forming an integral part of the Bulls’ historic run.
After retiring from the court, King seamlessly transitioned to broadcasting, becoming a fan‑favorite color commentator for Bulls television broadcasts. He joined the commentary team for the 2006‑07 season and remained on air through the 2025‑26 season, offering insightful analysis that resonated with viewers across the Midwest and beyond.
Jerry Reinsdorf, the team’s principal owner, issued a statement describing King as “a cherished member of the Bulls family” and highlighted the “significant impact” he had on the organization and its supporters over three decades. Reinsdorf’s remarks underscored King’s role both as a player who helped shape championship legacies and as a broadcaster who kept those stories alive for new generations.
Tributes have poured in from former teammates, coaches and rival players, all emphasizing King’s warm presence, his ability to make complex plays feel accessible, and his unwavering enthusiasm for the game. The collective mourning reflects a career that spanned playing, coaching and commentary, leaving an indelible mark on the Bulls’ culture and the broader NBA community.