Another loss for the Bryant family… We are heartbroken
Joe “Jellybean” Bryant, father of NBA legend Kobe Bryant, has passed away at the age of 69. The cause of death has not been officially confirmed, though reports indicate he had recently suffered a severe stroke. A former NBA player, Joe was drafted by the Golden State Warriors in 1975 and played for the Philadelphia 76ers, Los Angeles Clippers, and Houston Rockets. He also enjoyed a lengthy career abroad, playing in France and Italy before transitioning to coaching.
Joe was deeply involved in basketball, both as a player and coach. He had a significant impact on the La Salle University community, where he played and later coached. After Kobe’s tragic death in 2020, Joe largely stayed out of the public eye. However, Kobe had often praised his father’s basketball knowledge in interviews. Tributes poured in following Joe’s death, with many remembering him as a beloved mentor and role model. Kobe’s widow, Vanessa Bryant, expressed her condolences on social media, describing Joe as “sweet and nice to be around.”
