RIP Rick Bonnell

[appstanding]

Sorry to see that Rick Bonnell, Hornets/NBA beat writer since 1988 for The Charlotte Observer, passed away unexpectedly earlier in the week. I always appreciated the thoughtfulness and fairness of his work. In recent years I occasionally caught him on WFNZ or 730 The Game in Charlotte. He was as dedicated and enthusiastic toward the end of his career as he was when he first started. Wonderful tribute from the Observer's Scott Fowler.

https://www.charlotteobserver.com/sport ... 35193.html

[fjblair]

RIP. I read his columns and articles for many, many years.

[Rekdiver]

Same here....

[APPChad90]

Such sad news to hear of Rick’s sudden passing. He was such a part of the Charlotte sports scene and the whole region for that matter. He truly was THE source of anything Hornets. Over the years, he’s accepted plenty of other assignments too. I recall him covering App football as recently as this past season. Like many others on YC, I too followed his work from the beginning when I was a student and the Hornets were born until his untimely passing. Whether it be coverage through his articles or frequent radio interviews his work was always informative and insightful. He was so well respected by his colleagues and the people he covered. One of the cool things I learned was he had the respect and ear of even Michael Jordan. I think it was Scott Fowler his longtime colleague at The Charlotte Observer in his tribute article to Rick’s passing, pointed out that Bonnell could text MJ for information or a quote and MJ would reply in a timely fashion. I’m sure the list of individuals who had that privilege is short. I know I will miss his coverage. We lost a good one. Condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. RIP