The Bryant family has suffered another devastating loss. Joe “Jellybean” Bryant, the father of late NBA legend Kobe Bryant, has passed away at the age of 69. Joe Bryant, a former professional basketball player himself, had a significant influence on Kobe’s life and career. His death, which occurred just four years after Kobe’s tragic passing in a helicopter crash, has added another layer of grief to an already heartbroken family.
A Life Steeped in Basketball For Kobe Bryant’s Family
Lakers’ Kobe Bryant, right, has a laugh with his father, Joe “Jellybean” Bryant, prior to participating in a pickup basketball game at Loyola Marymount on July 5, 2007
Joe Bryant’s life was deeply rooted in basketball, both as a player and coach. A forward who played in the NBA for teams like the Philadelphia 76ers and the San Diego Clippers, he spent the latter part of his playing career in Italy.
Where his young son Kobe honed his basketball skills. Kobe often credited his father’s professional experience for shaping his own path to NBA stardom. After retiring from playing, Joe transitioned into coaching, including stints in Japan and the WNBA.
The Challenges of Father-Son Relationships
Kobe Bryant, Vanessa Bryant, Gianna Maria Onore and Natalia Diamante at the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Sports Awards 2016 held at the UCLA’s Pauley Pavilion in Westwood, USA on July 14, 2016.
Though Joe and Kobe shared a passion for basketball, their relationship wasn’t without its challenges. Tensions between the two grew in the early 2000s, reportedly due to Kobe’s decision to marry his wife, Vanessa, at a young age.
Despite these difficulties, the two reconnected later in life, especially after Kobe became a father himself. Joe Bryant’s passing leaves a complicated legacy, both as a father who lost his son tragically and as a man whose basketball journey mirrored Kobe’s early years.
Tributes from the Basketball World
Following the news of Joe Bryant’s passing, tributes have poured in from across the basketball community for the Bryant Family.
Former colleagues and players have shared memories of Joe’s approachable personality, basketball knowledge, and how he made a positive impact on and off the court. His coaching career, particularly with the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks, left a lasting influence on many young players. “Joe was a true basketball mind,” a former colleague said. Reflecting on the depth of his knowledge and his unique ability to mentor young talent.
A Legacy Carried by the Bryant Name
Joe Bryant’s death marks another chapter in the complex yet significant legacy of Kobe Bryant’s Family. From the streets of Philadelphia to the courts of the NBA and beyond, Joe’s life had a profound impact on those who knew him.
His influence, both in Kobe’s career and in his own right as a player and coach, will be remembered by many in the basketball world. His passing is a reminder of the personal and professional sacrifices made by those who dedicate their lives to the game.
Final Farewell
As the basketball world mourns the loss of Joe Bryant, his memory will continue to inspire the next generation of players.
Both for his contributions on the court and his role in shaping Kobe Bryant into the icon he became. The Bryant family’s strength and resilience in the face of repeated tragedies is a testament to their enduring legacy in the sport and beyond.
Sources
“Joe ‘Jellybean’ Bryant, father of Kobe Bryant, dies at age 69” ESPN. July 16, 2024.
“Joe ‘Jellybean’ Bryant, father of Kobe Bryant, dies at age 69” ABC News. July 16, 2024.
“Joe ‘Jellybean’ Bryant, Kobe Bryant’s father, dies at 69” USA Today. Scooby Axson. July 16, 2024.
“Joe ‘Jellybean’ Bryant, father of late Lakers legend Kobe Bryant, dies at 69” LA Times. Steve Henson. July 16, 2024.
Fox News Host Leads Prayer on Air: A Surprising and Inspiring Moment
Pete Hegseth, the host of Fox News’ “Fox & Friends,” recently made a daring decision by leading a prayer during a sponsored piece that highlighted a Bible app. It was a refreshing move. Viewers have been talking about this surprise on-air demonstration of religion; some are skeptical, while others are grateful for the hosts’ openness to pause for prayer.
Known for his kind and amiable manner, Hegseth lightened the mood and put a smile on his co-hosts’ cheeks as he started the section. He laid up the background of what was going to happen with a hint of comedy. His coworkers laughed when he remarked, “We have more ‘Fox & Friends’ coming up, but you know what, this is a transition for transitions if you’ve ever had one.” Hegseth concurred with a hilarious aside, “This is very ‘Fox & Friends,’ so ready your heart,” as Rachel Campos-Duffy jokingly added.
“This is the fifth Sunday of Lent, and we’re continuing our prayer series by reading prayers from the Hallow app,” Hegseth said. “Let’s do it this morning, close your eyes, and bow your head if you would. We all need it.”
Hegseth’s co-hosts, Campos-Duffy and Will Cain, joined him in prayer with bows of respect. Hegseth led the prayer on screen, reading passages from the Hallow app. “Jesus, today we begin the holy period of Passion tide,” he prayed in a sincere manner. Please, throughout these final two weeks of Lent, enlighten us on the mystery of your submission and sacrifice and intensify our awareness of your love for us. We beg you to reveal yourself to us and enable us to experience the grace of your presence.
Hegseth ended the prayer by thanking Christ for his unselfish love demonstrated on the cross and the Hallow app for collaborating with the show during Lent. Campos-Duffy offered a sincere “Amen” to confirm the prayer.
The Fox News anchors have publicly discussed their faith on the program before. Host Kayleigh McEnany said that she thought Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson believed God was leading the way in a prior episode. Pray for him as our speaker, everyone, said co-host Ainsley Earhardt. God needs to give our nation some direction right now.
Although everyone acknowledges that people have the right to practice their faith freely, some people might have taken offense at this on-air prayer. Many others, on the other hand, thought it was a good idea and appreciated that the hosts would pause their hectic broadcast to pray for a moment.
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