It’s been a tough year for former NBA players in 2015. Anthony Mason, Jerome Kersey are just 2 of the former beloved NBA players to pass away since the calendar year started and unfortunately, a former member of the some great teams, Jack Haley, has passed away.
Jack Haley played for the UCLA Bruins collegiately and played 9 seasons in the NBA. He was a journeyman in the world of basketball, primarily as a reserve center averaging 3.5 points and 2.7 rebounds per game in the NBA where he played with the New Jersey Nets, San Antonio Spurs, Los Angeles Lakers and had a championship with the Jordan-era Bulls, when he won an NBA championship with the 1995-96 Chicago Bulls who finished the season with a 72-10 record.
Haley’s family confirmed the news in a statement released through the Lakers that he passed away due to a heart condition.
“It is with great sadness that the Haley family announces the passing of our beloved father, son, and brother,” the family statement said. “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 from around the country.”
After his career, Haley spent time as a broadcaster with the Lakers, living in the Seal Beach area, near where he grew up in Huntington Beach, in Orange County, California.
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
Jack Haley????-member of Bulls 95-96 team of ages. RIP.
— Phil Jackson (@PhilJackson11) March 17, 2015
RIP #JackHaley
— Kobe Bryant (@kobebryant) March 18, 2015
Jack Haley, who played for me and was an assistant when I was coaching with the Nets, passed away too young.
— John Calipari (@UKCoachCalipari) March 17, 2015
RIP to my brother Jack Haley. Sending love to his family. We had a great together run with the 95-96 @chicagobulls! pic.twitter.com/NtPUznONu4
— Dennis Rodman (@dennisrodman) March 18, 2015
Def Pen extends our deepest condolences to Haley’s family.
