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 news of Joe “Jellybean” Bryant’s passing has brought another wave of sadness to the Bryant family and the basketball community. His impact on the sport and the people around him was profound, and his loss will be deeply felt.

Joe Bryant’s legacy as a player, coach, and father is a testament to his passion for the game and his dedication to those he worked with. From his days as a standout player at La Salle University to his time coaching in the NBA and WNBA, he left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.

Following the tragic death of his son Kobe Bryant in early 2020, Joe had largely stayed out of the public eye. The bond between Joe and Kobe was evident, with Kobe often crediting his father for instilling in him the skills and mindset needed to succeed in basketball.

La Salle University, where Joe Bryant played and coached, expressed their sorrow at his passing, highlighting his impact on the Explorer family. Former teammates, coaches, and colleagues have shared their memories of Joe, painting a picture of a man who not only excelled in basketball but also inspired those around him to be their best.

As the basketball world mourns the loss of another Bryant family member, the outpouring of support and condolences from fans and fellow players is a testament to the lasting impact Joe “Jellybean” Bryant had on the sport and the lives he touched. His warmth, passion, and love for the game will never be forgotten.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Bryant family during this difficult time. May they find comfort in the memories and legacy that Joe “Jellybean” Bryant leaves behind.