Stacey King, a prominent figure in the history of the Chicago Bulls, has sadly passed away at the age of 59. The announcement was made by the Bulls on Sunday, June 7, though the cause of death has not yet been disclosed. King’s legacy spans both his time as a player and as a beloved broadcaster for the franchise.
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Born into the basketball fraternity, King was selected by the Chicago Bulls as the sixth overall pick in the 1989 NBA Draft. His journey to professional basketball began at the University of Oklahoma, where he stood out as a consensus All-American. In recognition of his impressive college career, the University of Oklahoma retired his jersey number, 33, in 2008.
During his tenure with the Bulls, King was part of a remarkable era for the franchise, contributing to the team’s successful run of three consecutive NBA championships from 1991 to 1993 alongside the legendary Michael Jordan. Standing at 6-foot-11, King played as a centre and was cherished for his contributions during some of the most iconic moments in Bulls history. Following his time in Chicago, he had stints with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Miami Heat, Boston Celtics, and Dallas Mavericks before retiring from professional basketball in 1997.
In the years after his playing career, King found a new calling as a sports broadcaster, quickly becoming known as one of the most engaging voices in Chicago sports. After a brief period coaching, he joined the Bulls’ broadcast team in the mid-2000s and remained with them for nearly twenty years. His lively commentary and vibrant personality endearingly resonated with basketball fans across generations.
Stacey King’s distinctive catchphrases, such as “Gimme the hot sauce!” and “Sriracha!” became synonymous with big plays and electrifying moments on the court. These expressions not only entertained fans but also fostered a sense of community among Bulls supporters, making each game feel personal, as remarked by Bulls president and CEO Michael Reinsdorf.
The reaction to King’s passing has highlighted his importance not only to the Bulls organisation but also to the broader Chicago community. Jerry Reinsdorf, the chairman of the Bulls, expressed profound sadness at King’s death, recognising him as “a cherished member of the Bulls family” and praising his unique personality that made a lasting impact on the franchise. His connection with the city and its basketball fans is described as having endured for over three decades, first as a revered player and then as a beloved broadcaster.
Tributes continue to pour in, demonstrating the deep respect and affection held for King by colleagues, fans, and friends alike. His energy, humour, and passion for the game profoundly influenced the Chicago Bulls franchise, and many fans are reflecting on the joy and excitement he brought to each game.
As the basketball community mourns his death, Stacey King’s contributions to the sport and his legacy within the Chicago Bulls will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come. His ability to connect with fans while bringing the thrill of the game into their homes has left an indelible mark on the history of the franchise. The sorrow felt across the community underscores the profound relationship he fostered with his audience and the era of basketball he represented.