Sports
Remembering Joseph “Jellybean” Bryant: A Legacy Beyond Basketball
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Joseph “Jellybean” Bryant, the father of basketball legend Kobe Bryant, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy intertwined with the sport and a profound impact on those who knew him. Beyond being recognized as Kobe’s father, Joseph Bryant made significant contributions to basketball in his own right, both as a player and coach, leaving an indelible mark on the game and those who followed in his footsteps.
Early Life and Basketball Career
Joseph Washington Bryant was born on October 19, 1954, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He excelled in basketball from a young age, showcasing his talents at John Bartram High School before moving on to La Salle University. Known for his smooth playing style and sharp shooting, Bryant’s skills on the court earned him the nickname “Jellybean.”
In 1975, Joseph Bryant was drafted into the NBA by the Golden State Warriors, marking the beginning of his professional basketball career. He also played for the Philadelphia 76ers, before continuing his basketball journey overseas in Italy, where he played for several teams in the Italian league. His time in Italy not only enriched his playing experience but also laid the foundation for his family’s deep connection with the country, where Kobe spent a significant part of his childhood.
Transition to Coaching and Mentorship
After retiring from playing professionally, Joseph Bryant transitioned into coaching, a role in which he continued to impact the game. He coached various teams in the United States and internationally, including in Japan, where he coached Kobe during his formative years in basketball. Joseph Bryant’s guidance and mentorship were instrumental in shaping Kobe’s basketball career and instilling in him a work ethic and dedication that would define his legacy.
Legacy and Impact
Joseph “Jellybean” Bryant’s legacy extends far beyond the basketball court. He leaves behind a family deeply rooted in the sport, with Kobe Bryant becoming one of the most iconic and influential basketball players of all time. Joseph’s contributions to Kobe’s development as a player and as a person are undeniable, shaping Kobe’s relentless pursuit of excellence and his commitment to the game.
Beyond his role as Kobe’s father, Joseph Bryant’s impact on basketball culture and his contributions to the sport’s global community will be remembered fondly. His journey from player to coach and mentor reflects a lifelong dedication to basketball and a passion for nurturing talent.
Remembering Joseph Bryant
As we reflect on Joseph “Jellybean” Bryant’s life, we celebrate his achievements, his contributions to basketball, and the lasting legacy he leaves behind. His influence on the sport and his role in shaping Kobe Bryant’s remarkable career and life are testaments to his enduring impact. Joseph Bryant will be remembered not only for his basketball prowess but also for his dedication, wisdom, and the profound mark he left on the sport and all who knew him.
In honoring Joseph “Jellybean” Bryant’s memory, we recognize a man whose love for basketball transcended generations and whose legacy will continue to inspire future athletes and enthusiasts alike.
Kareen Kennedy is the Assistant Editor for Florida National News
kareen.kennedy@floridanationalnews.com
NEW YORK CITY, NY (FNN SPORTS) – LIV Golf plans to begin winding down operations Monday, Nov. 9, following five years and more than $5 billion in spending.
Attorney Matthew Williams outlined the league’s plans during a bankruptcy court hearing Thursday, Nov. 5, in New Jersey. The process includes selling its remaining assets.
“We believe the wind down path is the best path,” Williams told the court.
LIV Golf confirmed the decision after a proposed restructuring deal fell through. The league said it will continue considering alternatives during the shutdown process.
TAMPA, Fla. (FNN SPORTS) — On Monday November 2, at the Yuengling Center, the South Florida women’s basketball team opened with a successful debut undernew head coach Kristy Curry.
The Bulls established control early with a 9–0 opening run, taking a 27–12 lead after the first quarter. Furman narrowed the margin before halftime, but South Florida maintained a 46–32 advantage heading into the break.
A dominant third quarter proved decisive, as USF outscored Furman 23–9 to extend its lead to 69–41 entering the fourth.
Balanced Scoring Leads the Bulls
Stefanie Ingram led South Florida with 15 points, followed by Hannah Kohn with 13 and Kendall Puryear with 12 points and nine rebounds.
The Bulls placed six players in double figures, shot 51.6 percent from the field and controlled the boards with a 48–25 rebounding advantage.
A Winning Debut for Kristy Curry
The victory marked Curry’s first win leading South Florida after arriving from Alabama.
Ahead of the season opener, Curry expressed confidence in the program’s potential:
“I’m so excited to be here. I truly think the sky’s the limit at USF.”
— Kristy Curry, USF Head Coach, in pregame remarks published by USF Athletics.
South Florida (1–0) will face Belmont on Friday, November 6, in Nashville, Tennessee.
– Nisey Spruill is a reporter and photojournalist for Florida National News (FNN), covering major news, sports and special events across Florida and nationwide. Contact sports@FloridaNationalNews.com
Bulls overcome early deficit behind defensive touchdowns and a record-tying performance from C.J. Hicks.
TAMPA, Fla. (FNN SPORTS) — The University of South Florida (USF) secured its sixth victory of the season Saturday, October 31, defeating the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) 30–10 at Raymond James Stadium. The victory improved the Bulls’ record to 6–2 overall and 2–2 in American Conference play, making the program bowl-eligible for the fourth consecutive season.
Defense Turns the Game Around
UAB opened the game with a 10–0 first-quarter lead, but South Florida responded with 30 unanswered points, highlighted by two defensive touchdowns.
Defensive end C.J. Hicks delivered one of the game’s most significant performances, recording four sacks to tie the USF single-game record. Two of those sacks forced fumbles that resulted in touchdowns.
Late in the second quarter, Hicks forced a fumble by UAB quarterback Ryder Burton, allowing USF defender Asani Redwood to recover the football and return it six yards for a touchdown. The play gave South Florida a 17–10 halftime lead.
Asani Redwood and UAB #71 UAB defensive lineman #71 attempts to tackle USF’s Asani Redwood during the October 31, 2026, matchup at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. Photo by Nisey Spruill / Florida National News
Hicks created another scoring opportunity in the fourth quarter, forcing a second fumble that linebacker Grayson Howard recovered and returned 13 yards for a touchdown, extending USF’s lead to 27–10.
South Florida’s defense finished with six sacks and 11 tackles for loss, limiting UAB to just 177 total offensive yards, including 17 rushing yards.
Offensive Adjustments Provide Momentum
Following an injury to starting quarterback Michael Van Buren Jr., sophomore Luke Kromenhoek entered the game and helped shift momentum in South Florida’s favor.
Luke Kromenhoek (#17) USF quarterback Luke Kromenhoek (#17) carries the football while facing pressure from a UAB defender during the Bulls’ 30–10 victory at Raymond James Stadium on October 31, 2026. Photo by Nisey Spruill / Florida National News
Kromenhoek finished with a career-high 92 rushing yards, including a 42-yard run that helped establish the Bulls’ offensive rhythm.
Running back Jason Collins Jr. added a six-yard rushing touchdown late in the second quarter to tie the game at 10–10.
Kicker Nico Gramatica contributed three field goals, connecting from 31, 30 and 33 yards to help secure the victory.
Bowl Eligibility Marks Another Program Milestone
With its sixth win, South Florida secured bowl eligibility for the fourth consecutive season, matching the second-longest such streak in program history.
The accomplishment allows USF to qualify for postseason bowl consideration, although an official bowl invitation and destination have yet to be determined.
The victory also kept the Bulls competitive in the American Conference standings, with four regular-season games remaining following the UAB matchup.
Looking Ahead
USF will return to conference competition Friday, November 6, traveling to face East Carolina as the Bulls continue their pursuit of a stronger conference finish and a postseason bowl invitation.
Final Score: USF 30, UAB 10
– Nisey Spruill is a reporter and photojournalist for Florida National News (FNN), covering major news, sports and special events across Florida and nationwide. Contact sports@FloridaNationalNews.com
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