Joe Bryant - Head Coach of the Los Angeles Sparks/LA TImes Photo
According to Lakers Nation, Joe Bryant, father of one Kobe Bean Bryant, will take over the helm as head coach for the Los Angeles Sparks, replacing Jennifer Gillom. The news was announced by Penny Toler, team VP and General Manager. Prior to the announcement, Bryant was an assistant coach on Gillom’s staff.
Currently the Sparks hold a 4-6 record in the Western Conference. That is not a good look for a team that has won back to back WNBA Championships (2001, 2002). And, because it has been eight years since the franchise claimed a title, a shake up is so necessary.
This is the second head coaching stint with the Sparks for Joe Bryant. Nicknamed “Jellybean,” the elder Bryant played professional basketball in the NBA and Italian Leagues. Now you know why Kobe speaks fluent Italian.
Kobe Bryant and father Joe share some love.
I hope the team can find some success. With the NBA lockout in full swing, the Sparks are missing a great chance to grow their fan base because they’re suffering a poor season.
You can learn more about the Sparks by visiting www.wnba.com/sparks.
Check out the good folks at LakersNation.com HERE.
