Kobe's Dad Former NBA PlayerJoe Bryant Dead At 69

Former NBA player Joe Bryant the father of Hall of Famer Kobe Bryant has died at 69 years old. Joe recently battled a health issue and suffered a massive stroke. Joe famously nicknamed "Jellybean" was a first-round pick to the Golden State Warriors in 1975 and played for the Philadelphia 76ers, San Diego Clippers and Houston Rockets before heading overseas. He had a stellar career in Europe from 1983-1991 most notably becoming a star for several Italian basketball organizations. In the NBA, Joe averaged over 8 points, 4 rebounds and nearly 2 assists a game. Following his playing career, Joe spent time as a head coach at every level  and led the WNBA's Los Angeles Sparks from 2005-07 and 2011. Joe married Pam Cox in 1975 and they welcomed their son, Kobe, in 1978, who eventually became one of the greatest athletes to ever lift a basketball. 

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