Stacey King spent more than three decades tied to Chicago basketball. First earning his rings on the court and then becoming the voice a generation of Bulls fans grew up hearing. His connection to the city ran deep and it showed every time he was on the air.
King was selected sixth overall out of Oklahoma in the 1989 NBA Draft and stepped into a Bulls frontcourt that was on the verge of something special. Alongside Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen, he contributed during Chicago's run to three straight championships from 1991 through 1993.
For many fans, though, his impact on the broadcast side ended up defining him just as much as those title runs.
On Sunday, the Chicago Bulls announced that King had passed away at 59. The news hit the franchise hard and sent shockwaves through the basketball community nationwide.
Jerry Reinsdorf Leads Tributes for Stacey King
Bulls Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf was among the first to respond, releasing a statement that captured the weight of the moment for everyone inside the organization.
"Stacey King was a cherished member of the Bulls family and one of the truly unique personalities in our organization's history," Reinsdorf said. "His connection to Chicago, the Bulls and our fans spanned more than three decades — first as a player and later as the unmistakable voice that helped bring Bulls basketball into the homes of generations of fans. We will miss him deeply and remember the joy, energy, humor, candor and passion he brought to our organization, our broadcasts and our fans every day. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones."
Stacey King's Journey From Oklahoma to Chicago Broadcasting Icon
King's story started in Norman, where he earned All-American honors under coach Billy Tubbs before the Bulls came calling. Over five seasons in Chicago he appeared in 344 regular-season games averaging 6.4 points and 3.3 rebounds. He later had stints with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Miami Heat and Boston Celtics but Chicago always felt like home.
When his playing career wrapped up, King found a second calling. He joined the Bulls' television broadcast team as a color analyst in 2006 and wasted no time becoming a fan favorite.
His catchphrases, his laugh and his "Drive home safely, Chicago!" sign-off became as familiar to Bulls fans as any highlight. He brought real perspective to the booth.
Chicago lost more than a former champion on Sunday. It lost one of the most recognizable voices the city has ever had.
