The basketball world continues to grapple with the loss of Stacey King, and among those honoring his memory was NBA legend Earvin Magic Johnson. As news of King's passing spread on Sunday, the Hall of Famer shared a heartfelt message of condolence, reflecting the deep respect King earned over decades in the sport—both as a champion on the court and as a cherished voice off it.
Magic Johnson Reacts to Stacey King's Passing
Magic Johnson joined a growing list of basketball figures mourning King's death with an emotional social media post that also remembered several other recently departed sports and entertainment icons.
"Cookie and I are praying for the families of four great men who recently passed away: NBA legend Stacey King, NBA Coach Rick Adelman, R&B superstar Peabo Bryson, and NFL Coach and former MSU Spartan Sherman Lewis," Magic Johnson wrote on X.
The tribute came shortly after the Chicago Bulls confirmed King's death. The organization stated that a family member had informed them. No cause of death was disclosed.
King's Legacy with the Bulls
King's connection to the Bulls spanned more than three decades. Drafted sixth overall out of the University of Oklahoma in 1989, the 6-foot-11 forward-center became a vital reserve during Chicago's rise to dominance. He played alongside Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Horace Grant as the franchise captured three consecutive NBA championships from 1991 through 1993.
Following his playing career, King remained closely tied to the organization, eventually returning as a television analyst. His energetic style, humor, and unmistakable catchphrases made him a fan favorite and one of the most recognizable voices in Chicago sports.
Who Was NBA Legend Stacey King?
Stacey King belonged to a rare group of figures who left a lasting impact on two different chapters of basketball life. Before reaching the NBA, King starred at the University of Oklahoma, helping the Sooners reach the national championship game in 1988. He followed that run with a remarkable senior season, earning consensus First-Team All-American honors and Big Eight Player of the Year recognition before entering the NBA Draft.
His championship rings came during Chicago's first three-peat, but his second act arguably made him even more beloved. King spent more than two decades behind the microphone, bringing insight, humor, and enthusiasm to Bulls broadcasts. His signature call, "Gimme the hot sauce!" became part of franchise folklore and resonated with a generation of fans.
Bulls chairman Jerry Reinsdorf described King as "one of the truly unique personalities" in team history, while team president Michael Reinsdorf praised his ability to make every game feel personal. For older fans, King will be remembered as a member of a championship dynasty. For younger supporters, he was the soundtrack of Bulls basketball. Few people have occupied both places in a franchise's history so naturally.
