SACRAMENTO, CA -- The Sacramento Kings organization, the NBA and the sporting world at large is mourning the loss of Gordon “Scotty” Stirling, who died this morning in Sacramento.
A fixture in professional sports for half a century, Stirling spent 27 years with the Kings in a multitude of capacities, including Director of Scouting, during which time the franchise drafted three-time NBA All-Star Peja Stojakovic, Hedo Turkoglu (the league’s first Turkish-born player) and 2009-10 Rookie of the Year Tyreke Evans.
Known for his witty sense of humor, infectious personality and unflagging work ethic, Stirling's illustrious career included roles as the NBA's Vice President of Basketball Operations, New York Knicks General Manager and General Manager of the ABA Champion Oakland Oaks. A U.S. Army veteran, his versatile career included serving as the General Manager for the Oakland Raiders after a successful career as a media personality in the Bay Area. Stirling also enjoyed a renowned tenure as a sports-talk radio host and is widely credited for pioneering the framework for fantasy sports.
“Scotty was a true original, a pioneer in his industry, and one of the warmest people I’ve ever known,” said Kings Vice President of Basketball and General Manager Vlade Divac. “I’m deeply saddened by his passing and will be forever thankful to have known and worked closely with him.”
“He was more than a trusted colleague, he was a mentor and a friend,” said current Kings television analyst and longtime coach, executive and Kings mainstay Jerry Reynolds. “I will miss him dearly and have his family in my thoughts.”
Said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver: “Scotty was a highly regarded league executive who dedicated more than 35 years of his life to our game. He exuded passion for basketball and worked tirelessly in front-office roles with the Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks, Sacramento Kings, and the ABA’s Oakland Oaks. Scotty also set a high standard as the NBA’s vice president of operations. With his vast knowledge and keen eye for talent, he earned the respect of his peers and colleagues. We extend our deepest sympathies to Scotty’s wife, Pam, and the Stirling family.”
Stirling is survived by his wife, Pam; three sons, Gordon, Donald, a member of the Utah Jazz organization, and Kevin; a sister, Helen Boak, and a brother, Archie Stirling; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother, John T. Stirling.
Private family services are to be held. A memorial will be scheduled.
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