R.I.P. Norm Van Lier

So long Stormin' Norman. Chicago sports will not be the same without you.

News of his death hit the airwaves in Chicago like a tsunami. All afternoon, I have heard mournful tributes on the radio and on television. There are very few players that can be instantly identified with the Bulls, have a decades long history with them and still take every move personally. Norm Van Lier hit all of those cylinders and more.

There was no one harder on current Bulls players when they were slacking and there was no one who celebrated each victory more than Norm. Basketball and the Bulls were in his lifeblood. Chicago sports and the Chicago Bulls have lost a unique and passionate man, who deeply cared about the sport. You will definitely be missed, Norm.