In a devastating development that has sent shockwaves through the Chicago sports community, beloved former Chicago Bulls player and iconic broadcaster Stacey King has reportedly passed away. Multiple sources close to the situation confirm that King, 58, died following an apparent fall at his home, though official cause of death has not yet been released.
The news hit particularly hard for baseball Hall of Famer Frank Thomas, who worked alongside King on the CHSN network in Chicago. Insiders say Thomas was visibly shaken and took to social media to deliver a raw, emotional tribute. “RIP Stacey King! Great Player, Excellent Broadcaster and just a Great Dude. We will Miss you Big Fella!” Thomas posted on X, his words resonating with thousands of heartbroken fans.
Sources close to the Bulls organization claim the team is in mourning, with players and staff reportedly struggling to process the loss of a man who was far more than a broadcaster — he was the voice of an era. King, who won three NBA titles alongside Michael Jordan in the 1990s, later became an Emmy-winning analyst whose infectious catchphrases — “Gimme the hot sauce … Let me step back and kiss myself” and “Drive home safely, Chicago! Beep, beep!” — became synonymous with Bulls basketball.
A Legacy Bigger Than Basketball
King’s impact extended well beyond the court. According to team insiders, owner Jerry Reinsdorf personally called King’s family to express his grief. “Stacey King was a cherished member of the Bulls family and one of the truly unique personalities in our organization’s history,” Reinsdorf said in a statement. “His connection to Chicago, the Bulls and our fans spanned more than three decades.”
Former teammates and rivals alike have reportedly been reaching out, with one unnamed source telling us, “Stacey had that rare ability to make everyone feel like a friend. He could light up a room and a broadcast booth with the same warmth.”
What Comes Next?
The Bulls have not yet announced plans for a public memorial, but speculations are swirling that the team will honor King with a tribute during the upcoming season — possibly a patch on jerseys or a moment of silence. Fans, meanwhile, have been flooding social media with memories of King’s colorful calls and larger-than-life personality, reportedly trending nationwide.
As Chicago grapples with this sudden loss, one thing is clear: Stacey King was part of the Bulls’ fabric, and his absence leaves a void that will be felt for years to come.
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