Chicago Bulls icon Stacey King died of hypertensive cardiovascular disease, a condition stemming from long-term high blood pressure, the Cook County Medical Examiner's Office confirmed to the California Post on Monday. Obesity was noted as a contributing factor, and the manner of death was classified as natural.
King, who was 59, passed away on June 7 at his home in River Forest, Illinois. A celebrated member of the Bulls family both as a player and a broadcaster, his passing was met with widespread tributes.
"We will miss him deeply," Bulls owner Jerry Reinsdorf said in a statement at the time of King's death. "We will remember the joy, energy, humor, candor, and passion he brought to our organization, our broadcasts, and our fans every day."
King joined the Bulls in 1989 after being selected with the sixth overall pick in the NBA draft. The 6-foot-11 power forward played alongside Michael Jordan and was instrumental in the Bulls' championship runs, securing three NBA titles in his first four seasons.
His tenure as a player in Chicago concluded in 1994 with a trade to the Minnesota Timberwolves. King continued his NBA career, playing for the Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, and Boston Celtics until 1997.
Following his retirement from playing, King transitioned to the broadcast booth for the Bulls, where he became a fan favorite for his energetic commentary and memorable catchphrases, including "gimme the hot sauce!" and "sriracha!"
Michael Reinsdorf, the son of Bulls owner Jerry Reinsdorf, highlighted King's deep connection to the team and its fanbase. "Stacey loved being a Bull," he stated. "You could feel it in everything he did — the way he played, the way he called games and the way he connected with our fans. He had a unique gift for bringing people together and making every game feel personal. He brought an energy and love for the game that came through in every broadcast, helping fans feel connected to our team. Whether it was through a broadcast, a conversation or a photo with a fan, Stacey made people feel seen and valued."