Norm Van Lier Dead At 61

February 26th, 2009 by Andrew Wamboldt

Chicago Bulls great Norm Van Lier was found dead in his Chicago apartment today.

February 26, 2009 - The Chicago Bulls and Comcast SportsNet Chicago today released the following statements on the passing of Norm Van Lier:

“Norm Van Lier was one of the all-time greats ever to put on a Chicago Bulls uniform,” said Bulls Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf. “Along with Jerry Sloan, he set a standard for Bulls defense and toughness which we will never forget and which we will always strive to replicate. We will miss him greatly, and extend our deepest sympathies to his family and his many friends.”

Van Lier was the full-time pre/post-game analyst on Comcast SportsNet, Fox Sports Net and SportsChannel since the 1992-93 season. This season had marked Van Lier’s fourth as an analyst on Bulls Pregame Live and Bulls Postgame Live, in addition to making regular appearances on Comcast SportsNet’s ‘Chicago Tribune Live.’ He also spent seven of his 10 NBA seasons with the Bulls and still ranks third to only Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen in career assists and steals for a Bull.

“Our entire network is deeply saddened by the sudden loss of our dear friend Norm Van Lier,” stated James J. Corno, President of Comcast SportsNet Chicago. “Norm was easily one of the most popular athletes in Chicago sports history and one of the most popular on-air personalities to ever grace our airwaves. From his start with us on SportsChannel to Comcast SportsNet today, Norm’s passion for the game he loved so much was shared and embraced with his legions of fans. On behalf of everyone at Comcast SportsNet, we send our deepest sympathies to the Van Lier family.”

It is always sad to see someone pass, especially someone as young as Van Lier.

We will continue to update when more is known.