At times we get so caught up with wins and losses that we forget that basketball is just a game. Championships, points per game and MVPs are things that consume our life, but in the grand scheme things, do they really matter.
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Today is a harsh reminder that life is short. Former Laker Jack Haley has passed away at the age of 51. The UCLA Bruin was drafted by the Chicago Bulls in 1987 and played nine seasons in the NBA. He also played for the Spurs, Nets and Lakers.
Haley was a part of the historic 1995-96 Bulls team that finished with a record of 72-10 and won the NBA title that year. Phil Jackson and Scottie Pippen went on twitter to share their condolences.
Jack Haley😞-member of Bulls 95-96 team of ages. RIP.
— Phil Jackson (@PhilJackson11) March 17, 2015
Very sorry to hear my old teammate, Jack Haley, has passed away. Great guy who I stayed in touch with over the years. RIP
— Scottie Pippen (@ScottiePippen) March 17, 2015
Haley was well respected throughout the league and will be greatly missed. Haley also had a successful broadcasting career. He was really interested in music and even did some acting.
It’s a sad day for the game of basketball. Haley was a stand up guy and he was still fairly young. While he wasn’t the most impactful player on the court, Haley had an enormous positive impact on his teammates, family and friends.
The Lakers released an official statement:
We are forwarding the following statement from the Haley family, as well as issuing the quote below from General Manager Mitch Kupchak on behalf of the Lakers.
It is with great sadness that the Haley family announces the passing of our beloved father, son, and brother. Our hearts are broken by this sudden, unexpected loss. Jack was honored and grateful for the opportunity to play in the NBA for nine 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. An autopsy revealed cause of death as a result of heart disease.
Lakers GM Mitch Kupchak:
“Jack was a hard worker and always very professional. He was proud to wear the Lakers uniform, and he was always a credit to our organization and the Lakers family. Our condolences go out to his family and friends at this time.”