By Watch World Media | June 8, 2026

Chicago, Illinois — Stacey King, the ormer Chicago Bulls center who helped the franchise win its first three NBA championships and later became one of the most beloved voices in Chicago sports broadcasting, has died at the age of 59.

King was reportedly found at his home in River Forest, Illinois, on Sunday. Authorities have indicated that an autopsy is pending to determine the exact cause of death.

His passing marks the end of a remarkable career that connected two generations of Bulls fans — first as a member of the championship dynasty led by Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen, and later as the energetic television analyst whose unforgettable catchphrases became part of Chicago sports culture.

From Oklahoma Star to NBA Champion

Born Ronald Stacey King on January 29, 1967, in Lawton, Oklahoma, King emerged as one of the nation’s top college basketball players at the University of Oklahoma.

He earned consensus First-Team All-American honors and was named Big Eight Player of the Year in 1989 before being selected sixth overall by the Chicago Bulls in the 1989 NBA Draft.

Standing 6-foot-11, King quickly became a valuable member of a Bulls team on the verge of greatness.

He contributed to Chicago’s historic first championship run and was part of the franchise’s three consecutive NBA titles from 1991 through 1993.

Though never the star of those teams, King became a respected contributor whose work ethic and team-first mentality made him a popular figure among teammates and fans alike.

Following his time in Chicago, he played for several NBA franchises before retiring after an eight-year professional career.

A Second Legacy Behind the Microphone

For many younger Bulls fans, Stacey King was known less for his playing days and more for his role in the broadcast booth.

In 2006, King returned to the Bulls organization as a television color commentator, beginning a second chapter that would make him one of the most recognizable voices in the NBA.

His broadcasts combined basketball knowledge, humor, passion, and unmistakable personality.

Fans embraced his signature calls, including:

• “Gimme the hot sauce!”
• “Too big, too strong, too fast, too good!”
• “Let me step back and kiss myself!”

His enthusiasm helped transform routine regular-season games into memorable viewing experiences and earned him multiple broadcasting honors throughout his career.

Tributes Across Chicago

News of King’s passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the sports world.

The Chicago Bulls released a statement honoring his decades of service to the organization as both a player and broadcaster.

Team leadership praised King’s unique ability to connect with fans and his unwavering passion for Bulls basketball.

Former teammates, broadcasters, coaches, and players shared memories of his humor, generosity, and larger-than-life personality.

Fans gathered outside the United Center, leaving flowers, jerseys, handwritten notes, and photographs in tribute to a man many considered part of the city’s sports identity.

Social media was flooded with clips of his most memorable calls and moments, reflecting the impact he had on generations of basketball supporters.

More Than Basketball

Beyond the court and broadcast booth, King was known for his community involvement, mentorship of young athletes, and deep connection to Chicago.

Friends and colleagues frequently described him as approachable, authentic, and passionate about helping others.

His ability to make people laugh while sharing his love for the game earned him admiration far beyond Bulls fandom.

An Enduring Chicago Legacy

Few figures have left their mark on the Chicago Bulls across as many eras as Stacey King.

As a player, he helped deliver championships that transformed the franchise into a global brand.

As a broadcaster, he became the soundtrack of Bulls basketball for millions of fans.

His career spanned decades, but his impact extended beyond statistics and championships. He will be remembered for his energy, authenticity, humor, and unwavering love for the game.

Stacey King is survived by his four sons.

For Chicago, the NBA, and Bulls fans around the world, his voice and presence will be deeply missed.

Watch World Media extends its condolences to King’s family, friends, former teammates, colleagues, and fans worldwide.