WJR News

Joe ‘Jellybean’ Bryant, former NBA player and father of Kobe Bryant, has passed away at the age of 69, as confirmed by multiple sources on Tuesday. Bryant, who recently suffered a massive stroke, was a prominent figure in both the NBA and international basketball.

A Basketball Legacy Rooted in Philadelphia

Born in Philadelphia, Bryant made his mark as a local basketball icon. He played collegiately at La Salle University and was selected in the first round (14th overall) by the Golden State Warriors in the 1975 NBA Draft, before being traded to the Philadelphia 76ers.

Over the course of his eight-year NBA career, the 6-foot-9 forward averaged 8.7 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.7 assists in 606 games. He played for the 76ers (1975-79), San Diego Clippers (1979-82), and Houston Rockets (1982-83).

Bryant’s legacy in Philadelphia was so strong that the 76ers released a statement honouring him:

“Joe ‘Jellybean’ Bryant was a local basketball icon, whose legacy on the court transcended his journey across Bartram High School, La Salle University, and his first four NBA seasons with the 76ers from 1975-79. Our condolences go out to the Bryant family.”

International Career and Coaching

After his time in the NBA, Bryant expanded his career by playing internationally, spending eight years in Italy (1983-91) and a brief stint in France (1991).

Bryant later transitioned into coaching, leading teams in the WNBA, Japan, and Thailand. He was the head coach of the Los Angeles Sparks in 2005-06 and again in 2011, leading the team to two playoff appearances with a 40-24 record.

A Tragic Loss in the Bryant Family

Joe Bryant’s legacy is forever tied to his son, Kobe Bryant, one of the greatest basketball players of all time, and a Hall of Fame inductee. Tragically, Kobe Bryant died in a helicopter crash on January 26, 2020, at the age of 41, alongside his daughter Gianna Bryant, 13.

Joe ‘Jellybean’ Bryant’s passing marks another heartbreaking moment for the Bryant family, but his impact on the game and the lives he touched both on and off the court will not be forgotten.

A Life of Basketball Excellence

Joe Bryant’s journey, from his days as a Philadelphia basketball legend to his global career as both a player and coach, demonstrates his passion and dedication to the game. His contributions to the NBA, international basketball, and the WNBA have left an indelible mark on the basketball community.