Jerry Krause, American basketball executive, Died at 77

Jerome “Jerry” Krause was born on April 6, 1939, and died on March 21, 2017.

He was a professional basketball scout and general manager.

He worked among other franchises, the Baltimore Bullets and the Chicago Bulls of the National Basketball Association (NBA).

Krause was a two-time recipient of the NBA’s Executive of the Year award.

Krause grew up in Chicago.

Krause played high school baseball as a catcher at Taft High School in Chicago and attended Bradley University.

When he completed college he went to work as a scout with the Baltimore Bullets.

Eventually, he gained a reputation of being able to eye talent.

Krause was credited by some for discovering future Hall of Famer Earl Monroe.

He succeeded Rod Thorn as Chicago Bulls GM in 1985, and managed the franchise as Michael Jordan and Phil Jackson ascended to elite status in their respective positions.

He died from battling health issues.

Jerry Krause passed away at 77 years old.