David K. Li is a senior breaking news reporter for NBC News Digital.
Long-time pro basketball player Joe 'Jellybean' Bryant, whose long European career had a profound influence on his Hall of Fame son Kobe, has died, officials said on Tuesday. He was 69. 'We are saddened to announce the passing of La Salle basketball great Joe Bryant,' said a statement by La Salle University where he played from 1973 to 1975 and was on the coaching staff from 1993 to 1996. 'He was a beloved member of the Explorer family and will be dearly missed.
' The elder Bryant played in eight NBA seasons, with the Philadelphia 76ers, San Diego Clippers and Houston Rockets from 1975 to 1983. He then spent the next eight seasons playing for professional teams in France and Italy. Kobe Bryant, born in 1978, spent much of his childhood in Italy where he learned multiple languages and grew fond of Italian culture.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Father Of NBA Legend Kobe Bryant Passed Away TuesdayJoe 'Jellybean' Bryant, father of former Lakers star Kobe Bryant, passed away Tuesday
Read more »
Joe Bryant, former NBA player and father of Kobe Bryant, dies at 69Joe Bryant, a Philadelphia basketball great and father of the late Kobe Bryant, has passed away at the age of 69.
Read more »
Joe Bryant, Father of Kobe Bryant, Has Died at Age 69He played high school basketball in Philadelphia, and went on to play eight seasons in the NBA.
Read more »
Kobe Bryant's Dad Joe Bryant Died at 69 Following a StrokeKobe Bryant's dad, Joe Bryant, died at age 69 on Tuesday, July 16
Read more »
Joe Bryant, father of NBA great Kobe Bryant, dead at 69Joe Bryant, a former NBA player and the father of Lakers' legend Kobe Bryant, died after suffering a massive stroke this week. He was 69.
Read more »
Philly hoops great Joe Bryant, father of NBA legend Kobe, has diedBryant, who attended Bartram High School and La Salle, succumbed to a massive stroke. He was 69.
Read more »