Joe “Jellybean” Bryant, the father of the late Basketball Hall of Famer Kobe Bryant, has died at the age of 69, La Salle University’s athletics department reported.
Citing La Salle men’s head basketball coach Fran Dunphy, The Philadelphia Inquirer wrote Joe had recently suffered a stoke. The exact cause of death hasn’t been confirmed yet.
La Salle University, where Joe played and coached, said in a statement that he “was a beloved member of the Explorer family and will be dearly missed.”
Just like his famous son, Joe was a renowned basketball player himself. Drafted by the Golden State Warriors as the 14th overall pick in the 1975 NBA draft, he played for the Philadelphia 76ers for four seasons, the then-San Diego Clippers for three seasons, and the Houston Rockets for one season. He also played in Europe.
The 76ers paid tribute to Joe, calling him “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.”
Joe’s sudden passing comes four years after the tragic death of his son Kobe and his granddaughter Gianna, who were killed in a helicopter crash with seven other people.
Kobe’s widow, Vanessa Bryant, wrote on her Instagram story on Tuesday, “Sending our condolences upon hearing the news of my father-in-law’s passing.
“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.”
Former Kobe teammate Doug Young praised Joe as the ideal “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 made us all want 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, the vice chairman of the Pistons and formerly Kobe Bryant’s agent, expressed his sadness over the loss of Joe and joined the basketball community in mourning a true Philly 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.
Веhind thе Sсеnеs with Jоy Веhаr: Ехсlusivе Insights intо ‘Тhе Viеw’Рrаyеrs fоr Fаith Нill
Faith Hill, a well-known country music performer, has recently been the subject of discussion over a health issue.
Due to throat cancer, she also had to postpone one of her concerts. She was unable to hide it. Her friends and relatives are present at this time. She goes on to say that her spouse has been her strongest advocate.
One of the best singers in contemporary country music is without a doubt Faith Hill. Her music is so beautiful and inspiring. Hill distinguishes herself with her upbeat, inspirational lyrics. Hill is really content with her profession as well. Everyone who enjoys country music adores her.
Even internationally, it set a phenomenal sales record. She is a modest and compassionate woman, nevertheless. She hasn’t been impacted by success in any manner.
She resides there in a gorgeous home with her husband, daughters, and extended family. Her acquaintances are concerned about her health, according to the most recent data. The onlookers began to worry at this point.
Hill thought it appropriate to declare that she was physically okay. The doctor had advised her to rest for two days.
She had to delay her performance because of this. She stated that her husband had supported her during this difficult time. She is ill, and many people are ill with her. Several fans have since questioned her about her singing ability.
Faith Hill’s husband Tim McGraw is really concerned that she may lose her voice and become entirely mute. His main concerns are her work and health.
She is making every effort to get better. This is a vulnerable illness, so Hill needs to be very careful right now.
She told the audience how important music is to her. The well-known musician is credited with creating the best country music albums and has earned five Grammy awards. The audience is wishing her well and eagerly anticipating her return to the stage.
Let’s hope Faith Hill gets better quickly. She should sing for us once more.
Leave a Reply