In heartbreaking news, Joe Bryant, father of the legendary Kobe Bryant and a basketball star in his own right, died on Tuesday, 16 July 2024. He was 69.
Joe Bryant dies: What’s the cause of death?
Bryant, also known as ‘Jellybean,’ recently suffered a massive stroke, which ultimately led to his passing.
This tragic news was confirmed by La Salle head coach Fran Dunphy.
The Bryant family has faced immense sorrow in recent years, as Joe’s death comes just four and a half years after the devastating helicopter crash that claimed the lives of his son, Kobe Bryant, and granddaughter, Gigi, along with seven others.
Joe Bryant biography
Joseph Washington Bryant was born on 19 October 1954, and made a significant mark in the basketball world both as a player and a coach.
His basketball journey began at Bartram High School and La Salle University, where he showcased his talent and earned a reputation as a formidable player.
Bryant’s professional career kicked off in the NBA, where he played for the Philadelphia 76ers, San Diego Clippers, and Houston Rockets over eight seasons.
One of his memorable moments was during his time with the Clippers when he executed a slam dunk over Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in the 1979-1980 season opener.
After his stint in the NBA, Bryant continued his career overseas, playing for various teams in Italy and France from 1982 to 1992.
Transitioning from player to coach, Bryant’s coaching career was equally diverse and international.
He started as the head coach of the women’s varsity team at Akiba Hebrew Academy in Lower Merion, Pennsylvania.
He then served as an assistant coach at his alma mater, La Salle University, before taking on roles in different countries.
His coaching positions included leading the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks, Japan’s Tokyo Apache, Italy’s Sebastiani Rieti, and Thailand’s Bangkok Cobras, among others.
Joe Bryant’s influence extended beyond his professional career; he was a pivotal figure in the life of his son, Kobe Bryant, guiding and supporting him throughout his legendary basketball journey.
Reactions to Bryant’s death
The news of Joe Bryant’s passing has sent ripples of grief throughout the basketball community and beyond.
Here are some of the reactions we picked: