Bulls Legend Bob Love Dies of Cancer at 81
A Three-Time NBA All-Star and Key Member of Chicago's First Championship Team
The basketball world is mourning the loss of Bob Love, a three-time NBA All-Star and a key member of the Chicago Bulls' first championship team. Love died of cancer on January 29, 2023, at the age of 81.Love was a 6'8" forward who played 11 seasons in the NBA, from 1965 to 1976. He was a member of the Bulls from 1968 to 1976, and he helped the team win its first NBA championship in 1974.
Love was a versatile player who could score, rebound, and defend. He was a key contributor to the Bulls' success, and he was one of the most popular players in franchise history.
In addition to his NBA career, Love also played for the ABA's Denver Rockets and Carolina Cougars. He was a two-time ABA All-Star, and he led the Cougars to the ABA championship in 1971.
After his playing career, Love worked as a coach and a scout. He was a member of the Bulls' coaching staff from 1979 to 1982, and he later worked as a scout for the team.
Love was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019. He was also a member of the Bulls' Hall of Fame.
Love is survived by his wife, Donna, and his three children, Robert, Jr., Kimberly, and Bobette.
