The city of Philadelphia and the basketball world are once again in mourning. Joe “Jellybean” Bryant, father of NBA legend Kobe Bryant, has passed away at the age of 69. La Salle University confirmed his death, following a brief but valiant struggle with the aftermath of a severe stroke. Fran Dunphy, head coach at La Salle, remembered Bryant not just for his achievements on the court but as a “beloved member of the Explorer family,” whose presence left a lasting mark on the program.
Joe Bryant’s legacy extends far beyond his relationship to Kobe. Known affectionately as “Jellybean,” he was a 6-foot-9 forward whose ball-handling skills rivaled those of many guards, and whose infectious smile made him a standout in Philadelphia’s competitive hoops culture. Before fame followed him overseas and into the NBA spotlight, he made his mark on local playgrounds and at La Salle University, averaging 20.8 points and 11.1 rebounds per game over two seasons. His style of play was both creative and joyous, inspiring countless young athletes in the Northeast.
