Joe “Jellybean” Bryant, father of NBA legend Kobe Bryant and a former professional basketball player, has passed away at the age of 69. La Salle University, where Bryant played and later coached, remembered him as a “beloved member of the Explorer family” who will be “dearly missed.” La Salle head coach Fran Dunphy noted that Bryant had recently suffered a severe stroke. Since the tragic death of Kobe Bryant in a helicopter crash in January 2020, Joe Bryant had kept a low public profile, though his influence on his son’s development as a basketball player was widely acknowledged. Kobe had often praised his father for teaching him “how to view the game, how to prepare for the game and how to execute” from an early age.

Joe Bryant was a standout player at La Salle University, averaging 20.8 points per game during his collegiate career. He was drafted by the Golden State Warriors in 1975 and went on to play for the Philadelphia 76ers, among other NBA teams. The 76ers commemorated his contributions, calling him a “local basketball icon.” Beyond his playing career, Bryant left a lasting legacy as a mentor and coach. Former teammate Doug Young described him as a “role model” who “made basketball fun and made us all want to be better.” Joe Bryant also coached at various levels, including professional women’s basketball with the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks, passing on his knowledge and passion for the game to younger generations.

Arn Tellem, Kobe Bryant’s former agent, reflected on Joe Bryant’s impact in the basketball community, noting his significant contributions both on and off the court. Known affectionately as “Jellybean,” Bryant’s influence extended beyond his own achievements to shaping the careers of those around him, particularly his son Kobe, who became one of the most celebrated figures in NBA history. Joe Bryant’s legacy as a player, coach, and father endures in the hearts of family, former teammates, and basketball fans worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.