Legendary Bulls team member Haley dies at 51

LOS ANGELES, USA States – Jack Haley, who played for the Chicago Bulls team that set an NBA record for most victories in a season, has died at the age of 51, his family announced.

Haley, who died Monday, March 16 (Tuesday in Manila) of heart disease, played 9 seasons in the NBA and also spent time in Spanish and Greek leagues.

But he was notably a reserve power forward on the Bulls’ 1995-96 NBA championship squad that went 72-10, the best win percentage in league history at .878, and beat Seattle in the NBA Finals.

That squad included Michael Jordan in his first full season after returning from his first retirement, Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman, guards Ron Harper and Steve Kerr and Australian center Luc Longley.

Haley had been working as a television analyst on Los Angeles Lakers pre-game shows and before that has been an assistant coach with the New Jersey Nets.

“Our hearts are broken by this sudden, unexpected loss,” Haley’s family said in a statement. “Jack was honored and grateful for the opportunity to play in the NBA for 9 years, alongside world-class athletes with the Los Angeles Lakers, Chicago Bulls, San Antonio Spurs, and New Jersey Nets. He cherished every moment and gave 100% whether on or off the court. And more than anything, Jack dearly loved his family.

“We are humbled and grateful for the outpouring of love, support, and prayers form around the country.”

That included Haley’s coach with the Bulls, Phil Jackson, the New York Knicks president who tweeted: “Jack Haley-member of Bulls 95-96 team of ages. RIP.”

Haley played in 341 regular-season games and 14 playoff games from 1988-98, averaging 3.5 points and 2.7 rebounds with the Bulls, Nets, Lakers and San Antonio Spurs. – Rappler.com