Re-examining the Complex Legacy of Jerry Krause

Some thoughts on a complex figure whose impact on the Chicago Bulls can’t be simplified into cheers or jeers

On January 12, 2023 the Chicago Bulls hosted the Golden State Warriors. NBA games in January are usually pretty unremarkable as many consider this time the “dog days” of the NBA season, where players, coaches, and fans alike are just trying to get to the All Star break. But during this game, we were supposed to see a small slice of history with the unveiling and announcement of the Chicago Bulls Ring of Honor. The Ring of Honor showcases legends of Chicago’s basketball team from players to coaches to executives.

The game against the Warriors was meant to be a celebration of these people and great teams in Chicago sports history. Names you would expect such as Michael Jordan, Phil Jackson, Scottie Pippen, and Bob Love were all there. But the event turned ugly when former Bulls general manager and executive Jerry Krause was honored and his widow (Krause passed away in 2017) Thelma Krause came on to the United Center floor on his behalf. It was at this point that she was booed mercilessly by Chicago fans, who did not approve of the way that Krause handled the end of the Bulls dynasty (something that was likely rekindled when The Last Dance aired). But that is the true conundrum of Jerry Krause. He constructed one of the best…