Richard Klein

Verified Timeline

Lore & Background

Klein founded the franchise in 1966. Under his leadership, the Bulls became the second expansion team to qualify for the playoffs in their inaugural season, following the Chicago Packers (later Washington Wizards) in 1961–62. However, after the 1967–68 season, fan interest waned, and in 1969 Klein resigned as general manager. The Bulls later set a franchise record of 57 wins in 1972, but Klein had already left the GM role by then.

In Their Own Story

Under the guidance of Dick Klein's initial management and later Pat Williams' influence alongside head coach Dick Motta, the Bulls found their footing. The team made the playoffs for four consecutive seasons, highlighted by a franchise-record 57 wins in 1972. Key players like Jerry Sloan, Bob Love, Chet Walker, and Norm Van Lier carried this success to the conference finals in both 1973–74 and 1974–75. Despite these achievements on the court, the business side shifted dramatically when Klein resigned as general manager in 1969 and eventually sold the team to the Wirtz family. This transition occurred after a period where Williams left for Philadelphia and Motta took on dual roles as coach and GM, leading to a steep performance decline culminating in a 24–58 season in 1975–76.

Reader's Guide

Klein's tenure saw the Bulls' early success, including a playoff appearance in their first season. He sold the team to the Wirtz family after his resignation.

Did You Know?

• Klein is the only Bulls owner to have played professional basketball.
• He served as both general manager and president during the team's formative years.
• The Bulls were the second expansion team to make the playoffs in their inaugural season, after the Chicago Packers (later Washington Wizards).