Joe Bryant, affectionately known as “Jellybean”, was a significant figure in the NBA. Unfortunately, he died today at age 69 due to a stroke. His passing on July 16, 2024, has taken the NBA world by storm and has reignited the interest in his relationship with his son Kobe Bryant. Kobe left behind a fortune with an estimated value of $600 Million, and fans wonder if he shared any of his wealth with his parents, especially his father. Despite the ups and downs of their relationship, Joe did not receive any of the Mamba’s substantial real estate wealth after his tragic death.

In an appearance on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” in 1996, Leno asked Bryant if he no longer cut his parents’ lawn after signing a multi-million dollar contract with the Lakers. The Mamba, who was very giving to his parents, replied “The good thing now is I get to give my parents allowance”. But in due course of time, an incident caused a stir in the father-son relationship.

The strained relationship between Kobe Bryant and his parents surfaced after his parents hired a company, named Goldin, to sell Kobe’s championship rings that he had gifted them. It led to Kobe filing a lawsuit against Goldin, however, the two parties reached a compromise later. “Our relationship is sh*t,” Kobe said. “I say, ‘I’m going to buy you a very nice home,’ and the response is, ‘That’s not good enough?’ Then you’re selling my sh*t?”, the Lakers star furiously questioned.

Kobe’s parents, reportedly, wanted to buy a new house by selling the memorabilia. The memorabilia that was put on sale also included Kobe’s high school uniform, apart from his Championship rings. However, after a lawsuit was filed against Goldin, Mamba’s parents issued a public apology for their actions.“We apologize for any misunderstanding and unintended pain we have caused our son and appreciate the financial support he has provided over the years,” Joe and Pam said in a joint statement.

Kobe’s $600 million fortune was primarily passed over to his wife, Venessa Bryant, and their daughters.

Vanessa Bryant: The Custodian of Kobe’s Millions

While the strained relationship kept his parents from inheriting Kobe’s wealth, his wife Vanessa emerged as the main custodian of his wealth. Kobe’s estate plan ensured that most of his assets, including his investments in BodyArmor and Bryant Stibel, went to Vanessa and their three children.

Vanessa wanted a divorce from Kobe 9 years before his death when his wealth was valued at $200 million. However, she withdrew the petition later as the couple reconciled. After Kobe’s unfortunate death in a helicopter crash in 2020, Vanessa took the legal route and sued the helicopter company Island Express, accusing them of not taking adequate safety measures and allowing the helicopter to fly, ignoring the unsafe weather.

Despite being left heartbroken after losing both her husband and one of her daughters in the tragic crash, Vanessa has shown tremendous defiance in the aftermath of the incident. She now manages Kobe’s assets, including his investments, and is ensuring the continuation of his legacy through business ventures and charitable foundations.

The 42-year-old also represents the Bryant brand and the Mamba and Mambacita Sports Foundation. She recently teased the upcoming release of Nike’s new ‘Kobe 5 Protro X-Ray,’ ensuring that Kobe’s legacy continues.

Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, has to say about the infamous Shaq-Kobe feud, Caitlin Clark’s Olympic snub, and more, watch this video.