yahoo - 6/8/2026 9:26:35 PM - GMT (+2 )
The legacy Stacey King left behind with the Chicago Bulls as a player and broadcaster came pouring out in tributes during the 24 hours since the team announced the 59-year-old's death on Sunday, June 7. He was a constant link between the franchise's greatest years and its current generation of players, with achievements that helped establish the most famous Bull of them all.
Michael Jordan released a statement on Monday, June 8 in the wake of King's passing and emphasized King's role on his first three NBA championship teams with the Bulls (1991-93). King was the No. 6 overall pick in the 1989 NBA draft by Chicago and played eight seasons in the NBA before a long career as a beloved color commentator on Bulls' television broadcasts.
He was 59 years old.
More: Stacey King, three-time NBA champion, longtime Bulls broadcaster, dies at 59
"I'm deeply saddened to learn of Stacey's passing," Jordan said, according to ESPN 1000 in Chicago. "We shared some special years together as teammates, and he was part of a group that helped define an era of Chicago Bulls basketball. My thoughts are with Stacey's family, friends, and everyone whose lives he touched."
Stacey King cause of deathThe official cause of King's death is unknown at this point.
The Cook County Medical Examiner's Office told ABC 7 in Chicago that King was found dead at his home in the River Forest neighborhood on Sunday morning, and a head autopsy is needed to determine the cause of death. ESPN 1000 host David Kaplan reported King's death occurred after "a fall at his home."
The Bulls said on Sunday that service details honoring King's life and legacy will be announced at a later date.
“Stacey King was a cherished member of the Bulls family and one of the truly unique personalities in our organization’s history," Bulls chairman Jerry Reinsdorf said in a statement. "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.”
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Stacey King cause of death: Michael Jordan statement on Bulls teammate
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