Former NBA Player and Coach Joe Bryant Dies at 69

La Salle University Mourns the Loss of Beloved Coach

Bryant, Father of the Late Kobe Bryant, Was Known as 'Jellybean'

WEB Joe Bryant, a former NBA player, WNBA coach, and the father of the late Kobe Bryant, has passed away at the age of 69. La Salle University, where Bryant once coached, announced his passing with heavy hearts.

Bryant, affectionately known as "Jellybean," was a standout player at La Salle in the 1970s. He later played for the Philadelphia 76ers and Houston Rockets in the NBA. After his retirement, Bryant transitioned into coaching, leading the Los Angeles Sparks to two WNBA championships in 2001 and 2002.

Bryant's legacy as a father and mentor to his son, Kobe, is marked by both triumph and tragedy. Kobe Bryant, one of the most iconic figures in basketball history, died in a helicopter crash in 2020 along with his 13-year-old daughter, Gianna.

Joe Bryant's passing leaves an immeasurable void in the basketball world. His contributions as a player, coach, and father will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come. The entire basketball community mourns the loss of this remarkable figure and sends their condolences to the Bryant family.