NBA Star Kobe Bryant's Father, Joe 'Jellybean' Bryant, Passes Away

Former Eight-Season NBA Player Remembered

July 16, 2024 | Updated 3:29 p.m.

Joe "Jellybean" Bryant, the father of late NBA legend Kobe Bryant and a former NBA player, has passed away at the age of 69. Bryant died on Tuesday, four years after his son's tragic death. The news was confirmed by Fran Dunphy, the head coach of La Salle University, where Joe Bryant once played.

During his eight-season NBA career, Joe Bryant played for the Philadelphia 76ers, San Diego Clippers, and Houston Rockets. He was known for his crafty ball-handling and slick passing abilities, earning him the nickname "Jellybean." After retiring from the NBA, Bryant continued to be involved in basketball as a coach and executive.

Joe Bryant's death comes as a shock to the basketball community, who fondly remembered him as a talented player and a dedicated father. His impact on the game and his son's legacy will be remembered for generations to come.