David Kaplan from ESPN Chicago has reported that former Bulls player Stacy King has died following a fall at his home.
King, who was 59, passed away on Sunday, but details regarding the exact cause of death haven’t been made public.
“I am heartbroken to learn that Stacey King has passed at the age of 59 after a fall at his home,” Kaplan shared on X. “He made watching the Bulls enjoyable, regardless of the season’s ups and downs. Rest in peace, my friend.”
According to coroners, King was discovered at his residence in River Forest. An autopsy is necessary to ascertain the cause of death, ABC Chicago has reported.
Friend Ike White expressed shock at the news, recalling a recent conversation where they were planning summer outings. “This morning, I received a call from his son telling me Stacey had passed. It was completely out of the blue. After 30 years of friendship, it’s just devastating. Seeing your son cry like that—there’s nothing to be done.”
King had been with the Bulls for over 25 years, having been drafted sixth overall by Oklahoma State in 1989.
He played with the Bulls until 1994, contributing to the franchise’s first three championships alongside Michael Jordan.
After two additional years in the NBA, King exited the league. Following a brief coaching period, he joined the Bulls’ broadcast team in 2006 and became the lead color commentator the next year, a position he retained until his passing.
Bulls owner Jerry Reinsdorf also issued a statement about King.
“Stacey King was a cherished member of the Bulls family and a truly unique presence in our organization’s history,” Reinsdorf said. “His bond with Chicago, the Bulls, and our fans extended across over 30 years. He was not only a player but also a voice that brought Bulls basketball to countless fans’ homes. We will greatly miss him and remember the joy, energy, humor, and passion he shared with us every day.”
