Joe Bryant, Father of Late NBA Star Kobe Bryant, Passes Away

Former NBA Player and Coach Succumbs to Lingering Health Issues

Bryant Sr. Was a Stalwart in the Basketball Community

WEB July 16, 2024 Updated 3:29 PM

Joe Bryant, the father of the late NBA great Kobe Bryant and a former pro basketball player himself, has passed away at the age of 65. Bryant Sr. had been battling lingering health issues for some time. He died peacefully at his home in Los Angeles, surrounded by his family.

Bryant Sr. was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1959. He played basketball at La Salle University before being drafted into the NBA by the Philadelphia 76ers in 1981. He played seven seasons in the NBA for the 76ers, San Diego Clippers, and Houston Rockets.

After his playing career ended, Bryant Sr. became a coach. He was the head coach of the Los Angeles Sparks of the WNBA from 2005 to 2007. He also served as an assistant coach for the Philadelphia 76ers and the Los Angeles Lakers.

Bryant Sr. was a beloved figure in the basketball community. He was a proud father and a dedicated coach. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and fans.