Joe Bryant, Father of Kobe Bryant, Passes Away at 69

Life and Career Highlights

Joe Bryant, the former NBA player and father of the late Kobe Bryant, has passed away at the age of 69. The news was confirmed by La Salle University, where Joe Bryant was a standout basketball player and later served as an assistant coach.

From College Star to NBA Veteran

Joe Bryant was a college basketball star at La Salle University in Philadelphia. He was named an All-American and led the Explorers to the NCAA Tournament in 1972 and 1973. He was drafted by the Golden State Warriors in the second round of the 1975 NBA Draft.

Bryant played for eight seasons in the NBA, suiting up for the Warriors, San Diego Clippers, New Orleans Jazz, and Houston Rockets. He averaged 8.3 points and 5.3 rebounds per game during his career.

Legacy and Family

Joe Bryant's greatest legacy may be his son, Kobe Bryant, who went on to become one of the greatest basketball players of all time. Kobe Bryant was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2020.

In addition to Kobe, Joe Bryant had two other children, Sharia and Chynna.

Conclusion

Joe Bryant's passing is a sad loss for the basketball community and for all who knew him. His contributions to the game, both as a player and a father, will be long remembered. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and fans around the world.