Joe Bryant, a former National Basketball Association (NBA) player and father of the late, legendary Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant, passed away in the early hours of Wednesday, July 17 (Philippine Standard Time) at the age of 69.
Joe Bryant's journey in the world of basketball began long before his son Kobe became a household name. Born on October 19, 1954, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Joe developed a passion for the sport at a young age. His skills on the court quickly garnered attention, leading him to play college basketball for La Salle University. Bryant played for the La Salle Explorers from 1973 to 1975, where he left a lasting impact with his exceptional talent and dedication.
Fran Murphy, a coach at La Salle, confirmed that Joe Bryant had recently suffered a massive stroke and did not recover from that setback. Murphy expressed his sorrow, stating, “We are saddened to announce the passing of La Salle basketball great Joe Bryant. Joe played for the Explorers from 1973 to 1975 and was a member of our coaching staff from 1993 to 1996. He was a beloved member of the Explorer family and will be dearly missed.”
Nicknamed “Jellybean” due to his love for candy, Joe Bryant was selected as the 14th overall pick by the Golden State Warriors in the 1975 NBA draft. He was immediately traded to the Philadelphia 76ers, where he played for four seasons. His career in the NBA also included stints with the San Diego Clippers and the Houston Rockets. Throughout his NBA tenure, Bryant averaged 8.7 points, 4 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game over 606 appearances.
Joe Bryant's basketball career didn't end in the NBA. He took his talents overseas, playing in France and Italy, where he continued to showcase his skills on the international stage. His international career not only enriched his playing experience but also prepared him for his future roles in coaching.
After retiring from professional play, Joe Bryant transitioned into coaching, bringing his wealth of knowledge and experience to various teams around the world. He had coaching stints in Italy, Japan, and Thailand, and also coached the WNBA team Los Angeles Sparks. His coaching career was marked by his ability to connect with players and share his deep understanding of the game.
La Salle coach Fran Murphy highlighted Bryant's contributions as a coach, stating, “Joe was not only a remarkable player but also an exceptional coach. His insights and passion for the game were unparalleled. He inspired many young athletes and left an indelible mark on the sport.”
Joe Bryant's personal life was deeply intertwined with basketball, especially through his son Kobe Bryant. Kobe often spoke about the influence his father had on his career, both as a player and as a person. Despite their close relationship during Kobe's childhood, they experienced a period of estrangement when Kobe joined the Los Angeles Lakers and sought more independence.
Vanessa Bryant, Kobe’s widow, expressed her condolences on Instagram, saying, “Sending our condolences upon hearing the news of my father-in-law’s passing. We hoped things would have been different. Although the times we spent together were few, he was always sweet and nice to be around. Kobe loved him very much.”
Vanessa Bryant on Death of Father-in-Law Joe Bryant: “Kobe Loved Him Very Much” pic.twitter.com/K79PcK45cY
— Complex (@Complex) July 17, 2024
Joe Bryant's death comes four years after the tragic loss of his son Kobe and granddaughter Gigi Bryant in a helicopter crash in California. This series of profound losses has deeply affected the Bryant family and the basketball community.
Joe Bryant's legacy extends beyond his own achievements on the court. He played a significant role in nurturing Kobe's talent, contributing to the development of one of the greatest basketball players in history. His influence can be seen in Kobe's work ethic, passion for the game, and dedication to excellence.
The Bryant family has experienced both extraordinary highs and devastating lows, and Joe Bryant's passing marks another chapter in their storied history. His contributions to basketball, both as a player and a coach, have left a lasting impact on the sport and those who had the privilege of knowing him.
As the basketball community mourns the loss of Joe Bryant, tributes and memories continue to pour in from fans, former teammates, and fellow coaches. His life was a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and resilience. From his early days at La Salle University to his international career and coaching roles, Joe Bryant's influence on basketball is undeniable.
Joe Bryant's life was a remarkable journey marked by significant achievements and profound losses. His impact on the world of basketball, through his own career and the legacy of his son Kobe, will be remembered for generations. As we reflect on his contributions, we honor his memory and celebrate the lasting mark he has left on the sport we love.
OKBET, Asia’s most trusted and legit sports betting site, extends its deepest condolences to the Bryant family and all those affected by this loss. We invite everyone to visit OKBET to stay updated with all sports news from around the world and join us now in remembering the legacy of Joe Bryant, a true basketball great.
