Joe “Jellybean” Bryant, father of NBA legend Kobe Bryant and former NBA player, has died at 69. La Salle University, where Bryant played and coached, expressed that he “was a beloved member of the Explorer family and will be dearly missed.” Fran Dunphy, La Salle’s head coach, mentioned Bryant had recently suffered a severe stroke.

Since Kobe Bryant’s tragic death in a helicopter crash in January 2020, Joe Bryant had rarely appeared publicly. Kobe once praised his father’s basketball acumen, saying Joe taught him “from an early age how to view the game, how to prepare for the game and how to execute.”

Joe Bryant was a standout at La Salle University, averaging 20.8 points per game. Drafted by the Golden State Warriors in 1975, he played for the Philadelphia 76ers and other NBA teams. The 76ers acknowledged his impact: “Joe ‘Jellybean’ Bryant was a local basketball icon.”

Doug Young, a former teammate of Kobe, remembered Joe as an exemplary “role model,” noting, “He made basketball fun and made us all want to be better.” Joe Bryant later coached at various levels, including the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks.

Arn Tellem, Kobe’s former agent, said, “Joe ‘Jellybean’ Bryant was a true Philly hoops legend… whose warmth touched everyone he met.”

The passing of Joe Bryant comes as another devastating loss for the Bryant family, who are still mourning the tragic death of Kobe Bryant just over a year ago. The news of Joe Bryant’s death has sent shockwaves through the basketball community, with many expressing their condolences and sending prayers to the family during this difficult time.

Joe Bryant’s impact on the basketball world was significant, both as a player and as a coach. His time at La Salle University was marked by his exceptional talent on the court, where he was a standout player, averaging over 20 points per game. He went on to have a successful career in the NBA, playing for teams like the Golden State Warriors and the Philadelphia 76ers.

However, it was his role as a father and mentor to Kobe Bryant that truly defined his legacy. Kobe often spoke highly of his father, crediting him with teaching him the fundamentals of the game and instilling in him a deep love for basketball. Joe Bryant’s influence on Kobe’s career and life was immeasurable, and his passing is undoubtedly a profound loss for the Bryant family.

Those who knew Joe Bryant personally have fond memories of him as a warm and kind-hearted individual who always had a positive impact on those around him. His former teammates, colleagues, and friends have shared stories of his infectious personality and his passion for the game of basketball.

As the basketball community mourns the loss of Joe Bryant, it is clear that his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the memories he created. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Bryant family during this incredibly difficult time as they navigate yet another heartbreaking loss. Rest in peace, Joe “Jellybean” Bryant.