Joe “Jellybean” Bryant, the father of the late Basketball Hall of Famer Kobe Bryant, has passed away at 69, as reported by La Salle University’s athletics department.
According to La Salle men’s head basketball coach Fran Dunphy, The Philadelphia Inquirer noted that Joe had recently suffered a stroke, although the exact cause of death has not been confirmed.
La Salle University, where Joe both played and coached, released a statement saying he “was a beloved member of the Explorer family and will be dearly missed.”
Joe was an accomplished basketball player in his own right, having been drafted as the 14th overall pick by the Golden State Warriors in the 1975 NBA draft. He played four seasons with the Philadelphia 76ers, three seasons with the San Diego Clippers, and one season with the Houston Rockets, in addition to his time playing in Europe.
The 76ers honored Joe as “a local basketball icon, whose legacy on the court transcended his journey across Bartram High School, La Salle University, and his first four NBA seasons with the 76ers from 1975-79.”
His sudden passing comes four years after the tragic deaths of his son Kobe and granddaughter Gianna, who were killed in a helicopter crash alongside seven others.
Kobe’s widow, Vanessa Bryant, shared her condolences on Instagram, saying, “We hoped things would’ve been different. Although the times we spent together were few, he was always sweet and nice to be around. Kobe loved him very much.”
Doug Young, a former teammate of Kobe, praised Joe as the perfect role model. “Joe was our JV coach at Lower Merion, and I could not have asked for a more positive mentor, teacher, and role model,” Young told ESPN. “It’s difficult to overstate how much he influenced me and my teammates. He made basketball fun and inspired us all to be better; he believed in us. I’ll never forget his infectious smile, his bear hugs, and the incredible bond he shared with Kobe. Growing up in Lower Merion, there was no family we loved and admired more than the Bryants, and that started with Joe.”
Arn Tellem, vice chairman of the Pistons and formerly Kobe’s agent, expressed his sorrow over Joe’s passing and joined the basketball community in mourning a true Philadelphia hoops legend. “Our friendship opened the door for me to represent Kobe as he entered the NBA, a memory I’ll always cherish. Joe was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, whose warmth touched everyone he met.”
May he rest in peace.
Please SHARE this article with your family and friends on Facebook.
“Girl Crush” von Leona Lewis und Adam Lambert
Adam Lambert and Leona Lewis teamed up for a remarkable rendition of the Little Big Town hit “Girl Crush”, delivering a mesmerizing vocal performance that captivated the audience. Known for their powerful vocals, Lambert and Lewis effortlessly captivated the live audience with their exceptional performance, showcasing their undeniable musicianship.
Their collaboration quickly gained momentum, reaching millions of views on YouTube. Viewers and critics alike praised Lambert’s exceptional vocal abilities, sparking renewed discussion about his remarkable journey since his time on “American Idol”. Many enthusiasts continue to debate whether Lambert has one of the most remarkable voices in contemporary music.
Lambert’s influence on “American Idol” remains a standout moment, particularly highlighted by his electrifying performance of Steppenwolf’s classic “Born to be Wild”. In a rock ‘n’ roll ensemble of leather jacket and black jeans, Lambert exuded raw energy. He captivated audiences with his magnetic stage presence and vocal versatility, transforming the iconic rock anthem into a melodic showcase adorned with his trademark vocal flourishes.
Experience Adam Lambert and Leona Lewis’ breathtaking duet “Girl Crush” below and immerse yourself in the enchanting synergy of their vocal talents.
Leave a Reply