A Storied Basketball Career
Joe Bryant was a standout player at La Salle University, averaging 20.8 points per game over two seasons. He was selected in the first round of the 1975 NBA Draft by the Golden State Warriors before being acquired by the Philadelphia 76ers.
The 76ers honored Bryant’s legacy in a statement, saying, “Joe ‘Jellybean’ Bryant was a local basketball icon, whose legacy on the court transcended his journey across Bartram High School, La Salle University, and his first four NBA seasons with the 76ers from 1975-79. Our condolences go out to the Bryant family.”
Throughout his eight-season NBA career, Bryant played for the 76ers, Clippers, and Rockets, averaging 8.7 points and 4.0 rebounds across 606 games. He was also part of the 76ers team that reached the 1977 NBA Finals.
After his time in the NBA, Bryant played overseas for more than a decade, competing in France and Italy before transitioning to coaching in 1992. His coaching career spanned multiple countries, including the U.S., Japan, and Thailand. He also served as head coach of the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks for parts of three seasons.
Remembering Joe Bryant
Doug Young, a former teammate of Kobe, spoke about Bryant’s impact as a coach, stating, “Joe was our JV coach at Lower Merion, and I could not have asked for a more positive mentor, teacher, and role model. He made basketball fun and made us all want to be better; he believed in us. I’ll never forget his infectious smile, his bear hugs, and the incredible bond he shared with Kobe.”
Arn Tellem, vice chairman of the Detroit Pistons and former agent to Kobe Bryant, expressed his condolences, saying, “Joe ‘Jellybean’ Bryant was a true Philly hoops legend. Our friendship opened the door for me to represent Kobe as he entered the NBA, a memory I’ll always cherish. Joe was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, whose warmth touched everyone he met.”
Bryant’s contributions to the game of basketball, both as a player and coach, leave behind a lasting legacy. His impact on the sport, his teammates, and his family will be fondly remembered.
This story includes contributions from the Associated Press and ESPN’s Dave McMenamin.