Tributes pour in online after Stacey King’s tragic death

Originally posted on Ball Exclusives | By James Parker | Last updated Jun 7, 2026 6:04 PM ET

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The NBA world was stunned on Sunday when the Chicago Bulls announced the tragic death of three-time NBA champion and beloved team broadcaster Stacey King at the age of 59.

ESPN’s David Kaplan reports that he passed away after a fall in his home.

King spent nearly two decades calling Bulls games, quickly becoming a fan favorite due to his passion, humor and wordplay.

As the news was made public, heartfelt tributes from King’s fans and peers alike came pouring in online.

Stacey was one of a kind because his passion was authentic and his ability to connect with so many was genuine. His knowledge of the game sometimes got overshadowed by his catch phrases. But man, he knew ball. He welcomed me to broadcast side and made me better RIP to an original pic.twitter.com/He8BJEoCgQ

— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) June 7, 2026

RIP Stacey

— Fourteen (@BuzelisMatas) June 7, 2026

I literally couldn't imagine Derrick Rose playing basketball in Chicago without Stacey King soundtracking his career.#ChicagoHistory pic.twitter.com/Nsid8fLfN8

— Chicago History (@Chicago_History) June 7, 2026

Oh my god. RIP Stacey King. I've watched way more Bulls basketball than I otherwise would've the last few years because of that man – his energy, personality, and iconic catchphrases. This is a crushing loss for the Bulls, their fans, and for the NBA. He was truly one of the best

— Brett Usher (@UsherNBA) June 7, 2026

One of my personal favorite Stacey King calls.

Rest In Power Staceypic.twitter.com/T73NW2Q17d

— Sub-Zero (@DisturbanceZynx) June 7, 2026

RIP Stacey King. One of the best to ever do it pic.twitter.com/o4mLX1tcc5

— Morale Supply Co. (@moralesupplyco) June 7, 2026

“Does anybody know how to post videos to Facebook?”

The best color commentator in the business. RIP Stacey King pic.twitter.com/8hFR9TazBQ

— Steve Helwick (@s_helwick) June 7, 2026

Every one of these type of notifications hit so hard.
Stacey King made watching bad Bulls seasons more enjoyable with his commentary. Truly was the one person you could count on every game
Im sick to my stomach.
RIP Stacey King https://t.co/cLwtZtC4RN

— KENNY BEECHAM (@KOT4Q) June 7, 2026

There will never be another like Stacey King. So much loss. Thank you for everything.

— Jason Goff (@Jason1Goff) June 7, 2026

I can’t even imagine watching the Chicago Bulls without Stacey King

— Daemar (@daemarrrr) June 7, 2026

King was the sixth overall pick by the Bulls in 1989 and went on to win three straight NBA championships with them from 1991 to 1993.

After stints with a number of other teams, he retired from the NBA after eight seasons. He then spent some time coaching basketball before joining Chicago as a color commentator.

He ultimately gave NBA fans numerous legendary calls during Bulls games that featured stars like Derrick Rose and Jimmy Butler.

“Stacey genuinely cared about people, and he made our organization better,” team president and CEO Michael Reinsdorf said. “We will miss him dearly, and his impact, memory and legacy will remain part of the Chicago Bulls forever.”

This article first appeared on Ball Exclusives and was syndicated with permission.

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