Let’s keep the Bryant family in our thoughts and prayers. Former NBA player Joe Bryant, Kobe Bryant’s father has passed away at 69 years old.
According to reports, Joe was battling a health issue and suffered a stroke. Joe, who was known as Jellybean, played for the Gold State Warriors in 1975 and then played for the Philadelphia 76ers, the then San Diego Clippers, and the Houston Rockets before playing overseas.
He played in Europe from 1983-1991 and became the star of several Italian organizations. During his time in the NBA, Joe “Jellybean” Bryant averaged 8 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 assists a game. He would later go on to coach the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks from 2005-2007 and in 2011.
Bryant’s death comes four years after the death of his son Kobe Bryant and his granddaughter Gianna. In January 2020, they were tragically killed in a helicopter accident along with seven other passengers. Kobe was 41 and Gianna was 13.