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.
A Touching Story of Transformation
Mayra Lisbeth Rosales, once recognized as the world’s most obese lady, has an inspiring story that will warm your heart. It is a story about overcoming obstacles, discovering inner strength, and making positive changes in the face of adversity. This is the story of Mayra’s miraculous change, and it serves as a reminder that it is never too late to start working on yourself.
A Life-Altering Moment
Mayra’s journey took a dramatic turn when a tragic event unfolded in her life. Her sister, in a moment of anger, caused serious harm to her own child, resulting in hospitalization and the heartbreaking loss of the child’s life. This devastating incident made Mayra realize that she needed to step up as the primary caregiver for her sister’s children. It was this heartbreaking moment that became the catalyst for her weight loss journey.
Overcoming the Impossible
Mayra’s determination to change led her to undergo a series of surgeries, with the support of a dedicated team of doctors and firefighters. These surgeries were no easy feat, as special equipment was required to transport her from her bed to the hospital. Through 11 surgeries, Mayra faced the daunting task of addressing the damage caused by her immense weight on her skin and muscles. But she refused to let these obstacles define her, and with unwavering commitment, she triumphed over every challenge.
n Extraordinary Achievement
Mayra’s journey was not only about losing weight; it was about regaining control of her life for the sake of her sister’s children. Through exercise regimens approved by medical specialists, she made incredible progress. Her efforts resulted in an astonishing weight loss of over 400 kilograms, which amounts to an 80 percent reduction. Today, Mayra enjoys a significantly improved quality of life, weighing a healthy 91 kilograms. Her transformation has not only brought physical changes but also a newfound sense of confidence and vitality.
A Beacon of Inspiration
Mayra Lisbeth Rosales’ inspiring journey is a testament to the power of the human spirit and the strength of determination. Her story reminds us that no matter how tough our circumstances may be, it is never too late to transform our lives for the better. Mayra’s unwavering resilience and commitment to her goals serve as an inspiration to us all. She teaches us to embrace challenges with courage, believe in ourselves, and find the inner strength to overcome any obstacles that come our way.
Mayra’s extraordinary transformation has touched the hearts of many. Her story is a shining example of what is possible when we believe in ourselves and refuse to let adversity define us. May we all draw inspiration from Mayra’s journey and have the courage to embark on our own paths of transformation.
Leave a Reply