“Michael Jordan expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Chicago Bulls teammate Stacey King, who passed away at 59 after a fall at his home, according to the New York Post. The NBA legend praised King’s role in the Bulls’ championship era and his lasting impact on the franchise. The Chicago Bulls also honored King’s legacy, citing his contributions as both a player and broadcaster.
Legacy of a Chicago Bulls Icon
A Legacy Spanning Decades
Stacey King’s career with the Chicago Bulls began in 1989 when he was selected sixth overall, joining a team led by Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen. Over four seasons, King became a key part of the Bulls’ three-peat from 1991 to 1993, though his statistical impact was modest—averaging 8.9 points and 4.7 rebounds per game during his rookie year. His role as a reserve, however, was critical in supporting Jordan’s rise to superstardom. “We are grateful for everything Stacey gave to the Chicago Bulls and to the city he proudly called home,” the team stated, emphasizing his enduring connection to the franchise.
King’s transition from player to broadcaster marked another chapter of his career. After retiring, he became an Emmy-winning color analyst for NBC Sports Chicago, where his charismatic personality and iconic call “Gimme The Hotsauces” became synonymous with Bulls broadcasts. His voice brought the game into homes for generations, and Bulls owner Jerry Reinsdorf reflected on this legacy. “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,” Reinsdorf said.
For more on this story, see Legendary Bulls guard Stacey King, 3-time champ & Emmy-winning broadcaster, dies at 59.
Michael Jordan’s Personal Tribute
Michael Jordan’s Personal Tribute
Jordan’s statement underscored the personal bond between the two men. “I’m deeply saddened to learn of Stacey’s passing. We shared some special years together as teammates, and he was part of a group that helped define an era of Chicago Bulls basketball,” Jordan said. The former star highlighted King’s role in the Bulls’ championship success, noting that his presence “helped create the enduring place he holds in Bulls history.” Jordan, who has rarely commented publicly on former teammates, emphasized the emotional weight of the loss, adding, “My thoughts are with Stacey’s family, friends, and everyone whose lives he touched.
This personal reflection contrasts with the more institutional tributes from the Bulls organization. While the team focused on King’s professional legacy, Jordan’s remarks revealed a deeper camaraderie. The two shared a unique dynamic: Jordan, already a superstar, relied on King’s steady presence as a reserve, a role that often went unnoticed but was vital to the team’s success. “You know, it’s hard to be the headliner when Michael [Jordan] and Scottie [Pippen] are there,” said Jason Benetti, a Chicago-based broadcaster who worked with King. “But Stacey didn’t wear it on his sleeve. You knew he was part of something big.
Voices of the Broadcast Booth
Personal Reflections from Jason Benetti
Benetti’s account of working with King added a human dimension to the story. The broadcaster described their collaboration during a 2021 White Sox game, which King co-called from the NBC Tower during a rain delay. “He loved Chicago,” Benetti said. “He wanted to be around it, performing, all that.” This dedication extended beyond the broadcast booth—King was known for signing autographs for hours after games, a gesture that reflected his deep connection to fans.
Benetti also shared a lighthearted anecdote about their professional rapport. During a White Sox broadcast, King taught Benetti the “Nationwide jingle,” a moment that highlighted their mutual respect. “He nailed it. Like, man, that was such a trap,” Benetti recalled, referencing King’s smooth, R&B-style delivery. This camaraderie, Benetti noted, was emblematic of King’s personality: “He wanted a partnership, even if we did just one game with him.</
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