BREAKING NEWS: Magic Johnson Issues a Statement Regarding Joe Bryant’s Death – Lakers News

The father of legendary Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant, Joe “Jellybean” Bryant, was a former NBA player whose death was revealed on Tuesday morning. Bryant was 69 years old. Bryant’s recent severe stroke was disclosed by LaSalle head coach Fran Dunphy, however the official cause of death remained unknown.

Though Bryant’s playing career in the NBA and abroad is what most people know him for, he also became a coach later in life and even worked as the Los Angeles Sparks’ head coach. Magic Johnson, another Lakers star, owns a portion of the Sparks and was saddened to learn of Bryant’s passing.

After learning of the tragedy, Johnson rushed to social media to express his shock and to offer his sympathies to the Bryant family, honoring Joe Bryant as a coach and player:

Legendary Philadelphia basketball player Joe Bryant was born and raised in the city, attended LaSalle for his undergraduate career, and played his first four NBA seasons with the Philadelphia 76ers. He certainly saw Magic on the court during his NBA career, but their friendship most likely deepened after Kobe joined the Lakers and then again when he was employed by the Sparks.

The NBA and its players have a true fraternity, so losing one always stings on many different levels. The Bryant family has undoubtedly experienced great sadness, and they now suffer the loss of a family member.

Joe Bryant’s surviving family members include his wife Pam, daughters Shaya and Sharia, and grandchildren.

Bianka Bryant, the daughter of Lakers star Kobe Bryant, is being trained by Candace Parker. Bianka Bryant appears to be carrying on the Bryant family tradition of basketball. Naturally, Kobe and Gianna’s shared passion for the game allowed them to bond, and maybe that bond will continue now that Bianka is receiving instruction from one of the greatest players of all time.

One of the all-time greats in women’s basketball, Candace Parker of the Los Angeles Sparks, posted a photo of herself practicing with Bianka to perfect her shooting form. The seven-year-old displayed good form, and with the greatest assistance available, she could be able to continue her basketball career.