By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The sports world is deeply mourning the sudden loss of former Chicago Bulls big and beloved broadcaster Stacey King, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 59.
While he secured three consecutive NBA championships with the Bulls dynasty alongside Michael Jordan from 1991 to 1993, he spent the subsequent two decades entertaining generations of fans as an iconic color commentator. Beyond his basketball accolades, King was universally celebrated for a sharp wit and infectious humor that flawlessly defined his career.
Nowhere was his self-deprecating comedy better captured than in 1990, when the then-rookie witnessed Jordan torch the Cleveland Cavaliers for a career-high 69 points. After entering the game late and sinking a solitary free throw, King deadpanned to a packed room of reporters, “I will always remember this as the night that Michael Jordan and I combined to score 70 points.”
That legendary zinger mirrored his approach to both life and broadcasting, as he refused to take himself too seriously while providing a beacon of joy for Chicago sports.
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… pic.twitter.com/9UpbvZwmBG
— NBA (@NBA) June 7, 2026
Before transitioning into his post-playing media career, King was a standout All-American at Oklahoma, leading the Sooners to a national title game before being drafted sixth overall by Chicago in 1989. He carved out a solid eight-season NBA tenure, contributing size and physical frontcourt depth. After his time with the Bulls, he brought a veteran presence to the Minnesota Timberwolves, Miami Heat, Boston Celtics, and Dallas Mavericks. Taking his talents overseas toward the end of his playing days, he also completed brief stints in Italy and Turkiye.
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