Former Bulls player, commentator Van Lier dies

CHICAGO (AP) -Former Chicago Bulls guard and broadcaster Norm Van Lier was found dead Thursday afternoon in his home, authorities said.

He was 61.

Firefighters went to his home, just blocks from the United Center, to respond to a request for a well-being check. They found Van Lier unresponsive shortly before 1 p.m. and he was pronounced dead at the scene, said Chicago Fire Department spokesman Quention Curtis.

The Cook County medical examiner's office confirmed his death.

Van Lier began his NBA career with Cincinnati in 1969. He later spent more than six seasons with the Chicago Bulls before finishing his career with Milwaukee in 1979.

The three-time All-Star played on five playoff teams.

Van Lier, from East Liverpool, Ohio, was drafted by Chicago in 1969, but debuted in the league with Cincinnati that year. He later spent more than six seasons with the Bulls before finishing his career with Milwaukee in 1979.

Van Lier was a defensive standout and a fan favorite who was given the nickname "Stormin' Norman'' because of his fiery play. Picked to the NBA All-Defensive first team or second team eight times, he retired after the 1979 season with 8,770 points and 5,217 assists.