Early Life And Basketball Career

Joe "Jellybean" Bryant, Former NBA Player and Father of Kobe Bryant, Dies at 69

Early Life and Basketball Career

Joe "Jellybean" Bryant, the father of late NBA legend Kobe Bryant, passed away at the age of 69. A former college basketball star and NBA forward, Bryant had a successful career both on and off the court.

Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Bryant began his basketball journey at Bartram High School. He went on to play for La Salle University, where he averaged 20.1 points per game and was named an All-American. Following his college career, Bryant entered the NBA draft and was selected by the Golden State Warriors in the 1975 NBA Draft.

NBA and Post-Playing Career

Bryant played eight seasons in the NBA with the Warriors, Philadelphia 76ers, San Diego Clippers, and Houston Rockets. He averaged 8.7 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game during his NBA career.

After retiring from the NBA, Bryant continued to be involved in basketball. He worked as a youth coach and mentor, sharing his knowledge and passion for the game with aspiring young players.

Legacy and Impact

Bryant is best known as the father of Kobe Bryant, one of the greatest basketball players of all time. Kobe Bryant, who tragically died in a helicopter crash in 2020, inherited his father's love for basketball and became a superstar in his own right, winning five NBA championships with the Los Angeles Lakers.

Joe "Jellybean" Bryant's legacy will forever be entwined with his son's accomplishments. He played an instrumental role in Kobe Bryant's development as a player and was a constant source of support and inspiration throughout his career.

The Bryant Legacy Continues

The Bryant family continues to make an impact on the basketball world. Kobe Bryant's wife, Vanessa Bryant, is a philanthropist and advocate for victims of sexual assault. Joe Bryant's daughter, Chubby Cox, is a former professional basketball player and the sister of former NBA player Chubby Cox.

Through their passion and commitment to the game, the Bryant family has left an enduring legacy in the world of basketball. Joe "Jellybean" Bryant's passing is a great loss, but his memory and the impact he had on the game will live on.