Joe “Jellybean” Bryant, the father of the late Basketball Hall of Famer Kobe Bryant, has died at the age of 69, La Salle University’s athletics department reported.
Citing La Salle men’s head basketball coach Fran Dunphy, The Philadelphia Inquirer wrote Joe had recently suffered a stoke. The exact cause of death hasn’t been confirmed yet.
La Salle University, where Joe played and coached, said in a statement that he “was a beloved member of the Explorer family and will be dearly missed.”
Just like his famous son, Joe was a renowned basketball player himself. Drafted by the Golden State Warriors as the 14th overall pick in the 1975 NBA draft, he played for the Philadelphia 76ers for four seasons, the then-San Diego Clippers for three seasons, and the Houston Rockets for one season. He also played in Europe.
The 76ers paid tribute to Joe, calling him “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.”
Joe’s sudden passing comes four years after the tragic death of his son Kobe and his granddaughter Gianna, who were killed in a helicopter crash with seven other people.
Kobe’s widow, Vanessa Bryant, wrote on her Instagram story on Tuesday, “Sending our condolences upon hearing the news of my father-in-law’s passing.
“We hoped things would’ve been different. Although the times we spent together were few, he was always sweet and nice to be around. Kobe loved him very much.”
Former Kobe teammate Doug Young praised Joe as the ideal “role model.”
“Joe was our JV coach at Lower Merion and I could not have asked for a more positive mentor, teacher, and role model,” Young told ESPN. “It’s difficult to overstate how much he influenced me and my teammates. 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. Growing up in Lower Merion, there was no family we loved and admired more than the Bryants, and that started with Joe.”
Arn Tellem, the vice chairman of the Pistons and formerly Kobe Bryant’s agent, expressed his sadness over the loss of Joe and joined the basketball community in mourning 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.”
May he rest in peace.
5 Miracle Cures of Garlic That Will Surprise You – The Powerful Health Benefits of Garlic
Garlic isn’t just a flavorful addition to meals – it’s one of the most powerful natural remedies you can find. Used for thousands of years as medicine, garlic is packed with healing compounds that can transform your health in surprising ways. Here are five incredible benefits of garlic that truly live up to the “miracle cure” name.
🧄 1. Natural Antibiotic – Fights Infections
Garlic contains allicin, a potent natural compound with antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal effects. Whether you’re battling a cold, flu, or even mild infections, garlic helps your body fight back faster and naturally – without antibiotics.
❤️ 2. Protects the Heart & Lowers Blood Pressure
Daily garlic intake is linked to improved heart health. It helps:
- Lower blood pressure
- Reduce bad cholesterol (LDL)
- Improve blood circulation
This makes garlic a natural ally in preventing heart disease and supporting a healthy cardiovascular system.
🔥 3. Powerful Anti-Inflammatory for Joints & Muscles
Garlic helps reduce chronic inflammation in the body – one of the root causes of joint pain, arthritis, and fatigue. By calming the body’s inflammatory response, garlic may ease discomfort and improve flexibility over time.
🧠 4. Boosts Brain Health & Memory
Thanks to its antioxidants and circulation-boosting properties, garlic supports better brain function. It may help with focus, memory, and protect the brain from oxidative stress – especially as we age.
🌿 5. Detoxifies the Body Naturally
Garlic activates liver enzymes that help flush out toxins. It also supports kidney function and reduces heavy metals in the body. A small clove of garlic daily acts as a natural internal cleanser.
💡 How to Use Garlic for Best Results
- Raw: Crush a clove, let it sit for 5–10 minutes (to activate allicin), then swallow with water.
- Cooked: Add to soups, stews, or sautés – still beneficial, but slightly less potent than raw.
- Infused Oil or Tea: A gentle way to enjoy garlic’s healing powers, especially for immunity.
Conclusion:
Garlic is more than a kitchen staple – it’s a natural miracle packed with healing benefits. From heart health to immunity and detox, just one clove a day can make a big difference. Try adding it to your routine and feel the power of this ancient remedy!
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