The basketball world is in mourning following the death of Joe “Jellybean” Bryant, the father of the late NBA legend Kobe Bryant. Joe Bryant, a former NBA player who stood 6ft-10 and played for teams such as the Philadelphia 76ers, LA Clippers, and Houston Rockets, passed away at the age of 69 after suffering a stroke. His death comes just over four years after the tragic passing of his son, Kobe, who died in a helicopter crash in January 2020 at the age of 41.

Despite the often strained relationship between Kobe and his father, fans have taken to social media to express their condolences and share their memories of the Bryant family. Joe Bryant, known as “Jellybean,” was instrumental in shaping Kobe’s early basketball career, instilling in him the fundamentals and passion that would later define his Hall of Fame career.

Throughout his life, Joe maintained a relatively low profile, especially in the years following Kobe’s death. However, his legacy as both a player and a father who influenced one of the greatest basketball players of all time remains significant.

The relationship between Kobe and Joe was not without its challenges. In 2016, Kobe revealed that he had been estranged from his parents for nearly three years after they attempted to auction off some of his high school memorabilia without his consent. This rift was a source of public scrutiny, but it did not overshadow the deep connection they shared over their love for basketball.

Kobe’s marriage to Vanessa Bryant was another point of contention within the family, as his parents initially disapproved of the union. The couple’s marriage in 2001 was not attended by Kobe’s parents or his Lakers teammates, further straining the family dynamic. However, the birth of Kobe and Vanessa’s first daughter, Natalia, in 2004, helped mend the relationship, bringing the family closer together.

Fans have been quick to honor Joe Bryant’s memory, reflecting on how his influence helped mold Kobe into the player and person he became. Many have shared heartfelt messages on social media, imagining Kobe and his father playing one-on-one in the afterlife.

Joe “Jellybean” Bryant’s passing marks the end of an era for the Bryant family, but his legacy will continue through the countless lives he touched, both as a player and as the father of one of the greatest basketball icons in history.