The three-time NBA champion and voice of the Bulls leaves behind a towering legacy, from leading the Sooners to the title game to his iconic broadcasting career
Stacey King, one of the greatest players to ever wear an Oklahoma uniform and one of the most recognizable basketball figures the state has ever produced, passed away at 59 years old on Sunday.
King was part of a special era of Oklahoma basketball that people still talk about decades later, as one of the faces of the program.
He was a native of Lawton and arrived in Norman in 1985. He quickly became one of the centerpieces of Billy Tubbs’ high-powered basketball machine.
King easily cemented himself as one of the greatest players in program history.
The left-handed center remains Oklahoma’s fifth-leading scorer all-time while ranking seventh in rebounds and second in blocked shots.
His postseason numbers somehow might be even more impressive.
King still owns Oklahoma records for postseason points (246), scoring average (20.5), and rebounds (93), while tying the school record for NCAA Tournament games played with 12.
As a junior during the 1987-88 season, King helped lead Oklahoma all the way to the national championship game, becoming one of the faces of one of the greatest teams in school history.
Then came his senior season.
He averaged 26.0 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game while earning Sporting News Player of the Year honors, Consensus First-Team All-American recognition, Big Eight Player of the Year honors, and First-Team All-Big Eight recognition.
His No. 33 jersey was retired by the university.
Then the NBA came next.
King was selected sixth overall in the 1989 NBA Draft and went on to play eight seasons in the league from 1989-1997.
He earned NBA All-Rookie Second Team honors in 1990 and won three NBA championships alongside Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls dynasty.
But for many younger fans, Stacey King became famous all over again after his playing days ended.
King worked on the Bulls' broadcast team from 2006-2026. His energy, honesty, humor, and personality made him one of the most entertaining broadcasters in the NBA.
Chicago Bulls chairman Jerry Reinsdorf released a statement that summed up King beautifully.
“Stacey King was a cherished member of the Bulls family and one of the truly unique personalities in our organization's history. 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."
He added, "We will miss him deeply and remember the joy, energy, humor, candor and passion he brought to our organization, our broadcasts and our fans every day. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones.”
Current Oklahoma head coach Porter Moser also released a statement following King’s passing.
“We are heartbroken over the passing of Stacey King, a true Oklahoma legend,” Moser wrote. “Stacey was one of the most accomplished and likeable players in OU men's basketball history, and he meant so much to our program because of his passion for the sport and the university.”
Former Oklahoma Athletic Director Joe Castiglione shared perhaps one of the more emotional reactions on social media.
“Just heard this shocking/heartbreaking news. Stacey & I had countless conversations about his love of being from Lawton, Oklahoma & playing for his beloved Sooners. He followed everything and came back as often as he could. This legend will truly be missed. 🙏 for his family.”
That quote says a lot.
Stacey King never forgot where he came from.
He loved being from Lawton. He loved Oklahoma basketball. And no matter where life took him — from Norman to Chicago and everywhere in between — he always seemed proud to carry Oklahoma with him.
From packed crowds inside Lloyd Noble Center, to championship celebrations in Chicago, to years behind the microphone entertaining basketball fans, Stacey King built a legacy few athletes ever achieve.
For Oklahoma fans, this is more than losing a former player.
It feels like losing part of an era.
Rest easy, Stacey.
And thank you for the memories.
