Former NBA player Joe Bryant, the father of basketball legend Kobe Bryant, has passed away at the age of 69. La Salle head coach Fran Dunphy confirmed the news, stating that Bryant had recently suffered a massive stroke. This tragic event comes just over four years after the heartbreaking deaths of Kobe and his daughter, Gigi, in a helicopter crash in Southern California.
Joe Bryant, who played for La Salle University and later returned as an assistant coach, was a beloved member of the Explorer family. The university expressed their sadness at his passing and highlighted his contributions both as a player and a coach.
Drafted by the Golden State Warriors in 1975, Bryant went on to play eight seasons in the NBA with teams like the Philadelphia 76ers, the San Diego Clippers, and the Houston Rockets. Despite modest statistics of 8.7 points, four rebounds, and two assists per game, Bryant had a notable career both in the NBA and overseas. He later transitioned to coaching, including a stint as the head coach of the Los Angeles Sparks in the WNBA.
The basketball world mourns the loss of Joe Bryant, a figure who made significant contributions to the sport both on and off the court. His legacy will be remembered by fans, players, and colleagues alike.