Joe "Jellybean" Bryant, a former NBA player and father of the late Kobe Bryant, died at 69.
According to The Spun, his passing follows a massive stroke that occurred four-and-a-half years after the tragic helicopter crash that killed his son Kobe and granddaughter Gianna.
Bryant, a Philadelphia basketball legend, had a storied career in both playing and coaching. He was well-known for his contributions to the sport, beginning as a star at John Bartram High School and La Salle University. Bryant’s death marks a significant loss in the basketball community, remembered for his legacy on and off the court.
Joe Bryant was drafted in the first round of the 1975 NBA Draft by the Golden State Warriors. He spent eight seasons in the NBA, playing for the Philadelphia 76ers, San Diego Clippers, and Houston Rockets. Over his career, he averaged 8.7 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.7 assists in 606 regular season games.
He was a part of the 76ers' 1976-77 Eastern Conference championship squad, a highlight of his professional career. In 1983, Bryant took his talents overseas, playing eight years in Italy and part of a season in France. This international stint added to his reputation as a versatile and talented player.
Joe Bryant's influence on basketball continued after his playing days. He transitioned into coaching, bringing his expertise and experience to various leagues and teams around the world.
Bryant began his coaching career as an assistant at La Salle University from 1993 to 1996. His coaching journey was extensive, including roles in the American Basketball Association (ABA), Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), SlamBall, and international teams in Italy, Japan, and Thailand.
His most notable coaching success came with the WNBA's Los Angeles Sparks, where he achieved a 40-24 record as head coach between 2005-06 and 2011. Under his leadership, the Sparks finished with a 25-9 record and reached the Western Conference Finals in 2006.
Despite his coaching achievements, Bryant remained private, especially regarding his family. He never publicly commented on the untimely death of his son Kobe and granddaughter Gianna, reflecting a personal and reserved nature.
Joe Bryant's life was marked by both professional success and personal tragedy. His death comes four-and-a-half years after the devastating helicopter crash that claimed the lives of his son Kobe and granddaughter Gianna. This period has been incredibly challenging for the Bryant family.
According to La Salle head coach Fran Dunphy, Joe Bryant recently suffered a massive stroke, which ultimately led to his passing. The basketball community mourns his loss, reflecting on his impact as a player and coach.
Fran Dunphy shared his condolences and noted Bryant's significant influence on Philadelphia basketball and beyond. "If there is indeed an afterlife, let's hope father and son are up there making up for lost time," Dunphy remarked, highlighting the hope for reconciliation beyond this life.
Joe Bryant will be remembered for his significant contributions to basketball and the legacy he leaves behind. His journey from high school star to international player and respected coach highlights his broad impact on the sport. Despite his professional achievements, recent personal losses cast a shadow over his final chapter, reminding us of the complexities faced by public figures.
