Chicago Bulls Fans Boo Late GM Jerry Krause’s Widow at Ring of Honor Ceremony

Chicago Bulls fans have been criticized for booing the late Basketball GM Jerry Krause’s widow during a Ring of Honor ceremony at the United Center. Krause was honored as the architect of the Bulls’ six championship teams and was being recognized as part of the inaugural class of the Bulls’ Ring of Honor. However, some fans chose to boo, which upset Thelma Krause, who was accepting the award on her late husband’s behalf.

Jerry Krause, who passed away in 2017, played a significant role in building the Bulls dynasty alongside Michael Jordan. In his time as the general manager of the Bulls from 1985 to 2003, Krause led the team to six NBA Championships and was twice named NBA Executive of the Year. Krause’s contributions were highlighted in the recent documentary series, ‘The Last Dance.’

Bulls legend Stacey King, who is now a commentator, condemned the actions of the fans who booed Jerry Krause’s widow. He expressed his disappointment, stating that booing Thelma Krause was the worst thing he had ever seen. King emphasized that regardless of personal opinions about Jerry Krause, he was responsible for bringing six championships to Chicago and deserved respect.

Jerry Krause’s name being booed during the halftime ceremony shocked many, as he was an instrumental figure in the success of the Bulls. Only three other NBA franchises have won more championships than the Bulls: the Warriors, Lakers, and Celtics. The inaugural Ring of Honor class also included other notable figures such as Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman, Phil Jackson, and Johnny “Red” Kerr. The 1995-96 Bulls team, which Krause helped build and won a record-setting 72 games, was also honored.

Notably absent from the ceremony were current Warriors coach Steve Kerr and Bulls’ analyst Stacey King, who both spoke out against the fans’ booing. Kerr, a member of the 1995-96 Bulls team, called the booing “shameful” and expressed his disappointment in those fans. He added that Thelma Krause and the entire Krause family deserved better treatment from the fans.