Kobe Bryant’s Dad, Joe Bryant, Passes Away at 68

Joe “Jellybean” Bryant, father of basketball legend Kobe Bryant, has died at the age of 68. The Bryant family, already no strangers to tragedy, is once again facing profound loss and grief.

Joe Bryant, a former NBA player himself, was known for his own significant contributions to the game of basketball. He had a career that spanned over a decade, playing for teams such as the Philadelphia 76ers, San Diego Clippers, and Houston Rockets. Following his time in the NBA, Joe went on to have a successful career overseas, playing in Italy, where his young son, Kobe, first developed his own love for the game.

Kobe Bryant, who tragically passed away in a helicopter crash in January 2020, often credited his father for instilling in him the fundamentals and passion for basketball. Joe Bryant’s influence on Kobe’s illustrious career cannot be overstated. Kobe’s path to becoming one of the greatest players in NBA history was undoubtedly shaped by the guidance and teachings of his father.

Joe Bryant’s passing marks yet another chapter in the Bryant family’s storied and tumultuous history. He was a beloved figure not only within the family but also within the basketball community. His legacy, much like his son’s, will be remembered for years to come.

The Bryant family has requested privacy during this difficult time as they mourn the loss of their beloved patriarch. Joe is survived by his wife, Pam, and his daughters, Sharia and Shaya.