A year ago today was probably the worst day in Chicago Bulls history. Two Bulls icons, Johnny "Red" Kerr and "Stormin'" Norm Van Lier, passed away on the same day. If you know me, you know I'm not one to get emotional or sappy about many things. But the fact of the matter is those two mean a hell of a lot to the Bulls franchise and to their fans. As a die-hard Bulls fan, both were a big part of my life for many many years.
There's one story that sticks out in my mind for some reason about Johnny. I remember when the Bulls won their first 3-peat...I was 9 years old. I was at home watching the Grant Park celebration with my dad. They had to have someone introduce the players to come up to the podium, so who better than Johnny? When he came out, he was wearing a professionally manufactured shirt that said "8-peat" with a picture of 8 NBA trophies...as if he knew the Bulls would dominate the rest of the decade. If Jordan didn't "retire" for 1.5 years, he would have been right. He was a fan above anything else...his entire life. And I don't genuinely get sad about many things, but when he wasn't the color-man anymore...it genuinely upset me. I was lucky enough to be at Johnny "Red" Kerr tribute night at the UC a little over a year ago, where MJ and Pippen and a bunch of others were present and all toasted Johnny. Probably my favorite Bulls game I've ever been to, and I can honestly say that I'm very proud to have been to that game.
As for Norman, no one was more knowledgeable about what it takes to win games. He was the best at breaking down wins and losses, and figuring what it is the Bulls were doing right or wrong. Earlier this season, the Bulls had some tough losses. The one that stands out is the 35 point comeback loss against the Kings. The only thing I could think of at that time, other than "I'm gonna puke", is what would Norm Van Lier say right now? I so desperately wanted to hear his take on this loss, because I knew he wouldn't hold his tongue. That's what I miss most, is the no nonsense brutally honest analysis that simply can't be replaced (sorry, Kendall). All Bulls fans out there were affected by these 2 in some way throughout their lives, and it's truly a shame that they're both gone. Below you'll find some tributes to these 2 legends. You'll also find some examples of Norm not holding back on his analysis, and you'll see why he can't be replaced.
