LA native Jack Haley passes away at 51

Jack Haley, who played for UCLA, the Lakers and won an NBA title with the Bulls in 1996, has died. He was 51.

Haley died Monday from heart disease, his family said in a release issued by the Lakers. A source close to the family said he collapsed in the family’s restaurant, Captain Jack’s, in Sunset Beach, Ca.

Phil Jackson, who coached Haley in Chicago, broke the news on Twitter.

The family issued this statement through 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."

After his 9-year NBA career was over, Haley became a sports broadcaster. He was a pre and post-game host on Lakers telecasts for Fox Sports West/Prime Ticket.

Doc Rivers and Haley were teammates with the San Antonio Spurs in the 1994-95 season.

"He was a teammate. We played together in san Antonio," Rivers said. "I haven’t talked to Jack in a long time, to be honest. I think I’m at this age, where that’s two teammates (who have died recently).

Jerome Kersey, who most recently was working for the Portland Trailblazers, died suddenly in February. He was 52.

Rivers has fond memories of Haley, known for his big personality and bigger smile, when he played with Chicago. Dennis Rodman was on that 1994-95 San Antonio team, too.

"He was crazy. Him and Dennis Rodman," Rivers said. "Him and Dennis Rodman were very very tight. To say they kept things loose in our locker room and off the floor would be an understatement. He also was a very good instigator in games. Something Red Auerbach said until his dying days, he told me, 'add instigators if you can. Even if they don’t play a lot they can help you in some way.' Jack did that very well."

Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak issued a statement Tuesday: "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.”

Haley grew up in Southern California and played for Huntington Beach High, before transferring to Golden West College and then UCLA. He played alongside Reggie Miller for the Bruins from 1984-87.

Haley is survived by his mother, Jeanette, and two sons, Jack and Jeffrey.