Stacey King Dies at 59: Chicago Bulls Champion and Iconic Broadcaster Remembered

The NBA community is mourning the loss of Stacey King, a former Chicago Bulls player and beloved broadcaster, who has died at the age of 59. The news was confirmed by the Chicago Bulls on June 7, 2026, though no cause of death has been publicly disclosed.

King’s passing marks the loss of a figure who bridged two generations of basketball fans. While he was part of one of the NBA’s most iconic championship teams in the 1990s, many fans later came to know him as the energetic voice behind Bulls broadcasts.

From Top Draft Pick to Championship Role Player

Stacey King entered the NBA with high expectations after being selected sixth overall in the 1989 NBA Draft by the Chicago Bulls. He quickly became part of a team that would go on to define an era of basketball dominance.

Playing alongside legends like Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen, King contributed to the Bulls’ historic three-peat championships from 1991 to 1993. While not always the focal point on the court, his role as a dependable big man helped support one of the greatest dynasties in NBA history.

King spent eight seasons in the league, also playing for teams such as the Minnesota Timberwolves, Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, and Boston Celtics before retiring from professional basketball.

His playing career may have included multiple stops, but his association with the Bulls remained the defining chapter of his time in the NBA.

Stacey King during the Chicago Bulls’ championship era in the early 1990s (Image via NBA, Getty Images)

A Second Career That Reached a New Generation

After stepping away from playing, King found a new calling as a broadcaster, where he arguably made an even bigger cultural impact. Joining the Chicago Bulls broadcast team, he quickly became a fan favorite thanks to his passion, humor, and signature style.

King’s commentary stood out for its energy and personality. His catchphrases and emotional reactions to big plays became a staple for Bulls fans, making him one of the most recognizable voices in team broadcasting. For many younger viewers, he was not just a former player but the voice that defined their experience of watching Bulls basketball.

His ability to connect with audiences helped him remain relevant long after his playing days ended, showing a rare transition from athlete to media personality.

Tributes Pour In Across the Basketball World

Following the announcement of his death, tributes began pouring in from across the basketball community. Fans, former teammates, and colleagues remembered King not only for his achievements but also for his charisma and presence.

The Chicago Bulls’ official statement reflected the impact he had on the organization, both as a player and as a broadcaster. While details surrounding his passing remain limited, the response highlights how deeply he was respected within the sport.

King’s legacy extends beyond statistics or championships. He represented a connection between eras, linking the Bulls’ golden years with modern audiences through his voice and storytelling.