Photo Credit: File Photo
Joe "Jellybean" Bryant, father of the late NBA legend Kobe Bryant, has died at the age of 69. Bryant, who had a storied career in basketball both in the NBA and overseas, recently suffered a massive stroke, as confirmed by Fran Dunphy, the head coach at his alma mater La Salle University.
La Salle University announced Bryant's death, expressing their condolences: "We are saddened to announce the passing of La Salle basketball great Joe Bryant. Joe played for the Explorers from 1973-75 and was a member of our coaching staff from 1993-96. He was a beloved member of the Explorer family and will be dearly missed."
Vanessa Bryant, Kobe's wife, expressed her condolences: "Sending condolences upon hearing the news of my father-in-law's passing. Although the times we spent together were few, he was always sweet and nice to be around. Kobe loved him very much."
Magic Johnson, reflecting on Joe's impact, wrote: "Joe was not only a talented basketball player; he was also a great coach. Joe was an exceptional human being with a radiant smile that had the power to brighten any room, and a great husband and father. Cookie and I are praying for his wife Pam, daughters Sharia and Shaya, and the rest of the Bryant family."
Joe Bryant was born in 1954, in Philadelphia. He attended Bartram High School and La Salle University, where he excelled, averaging 20.3 points and 11.1 rebounds per game. Known as "Jellybean" for his agility and fondness for the candy, he was selected 14th overall in the 1975 NBA Draft by the Golden State Warriors. However, he never played for them, as his rights were sold to the Philadelphia 76ers before his rookie season.
Bryant's NBA career spanned eight seasons with the 76ers, San Diego Clippers, and Houston Rockets. He averaged 8.7 points per game and became known for his versatility and memorable plays, including a notable dunk over Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
After his playing days, Bryant transitioned to coaching, taking on roles in Italy, Japan, Thailand, and the WNBA's Los Angeles Sparks. He coached the Sparks during the time Kobe played for the Los Angeles Lakers. Joe Bryant's family faced tragedy when Kobe and his granddaughter Gianna died in a helicopter crash in January 2020.
Joe Bryant leaves behind a rich legacy in the basketball world, remembered for his talent, coaching prowess, and his role in shaping one of the NBA's greatest players.
