“Our hearts go out to the Bryant family once again, as they face yet another devastating loss.

Joe was a talented player in his own right, carving out a successful basketball career long before his son became a household name.

His professional basketball journey began after an outstanding college career at La Salle University, where he was known for his skill, basketball IQ, and leadership. As a standout player at La Salle, Joe gained recognition for his impressive performances on the court, ultimately catching the attention of NBA scouts.

In the NBA, Joe Bryant played for several teams, including the Philadelphia 76ers, San Diego Clippers, and Houston Rockets. Over the course of his NBA career, he appeared in 606 games, averaging 8.7 points and 4.0 rebounds per game.

While Joe never reached the level of fame his son Kobe would later achieve, he was still highly respected in basketball circles, known for his work ethic, his versatility on the court, and his ability to mentor younger players.

His time in the NBA was marked by steady play, and although he may not have been a superstar, his contributions to the game were highly valued by those who worked with him.

Despite his relatively low-profile NBA career, Joe Bryant’s real impact in the world of basketball was not just about his time as a player, but about what he did after hanging up his sneakers.Continue reading…