Junior Bridgeman, ex-NBA star and billionaire businessman, dead at 71

Junior Bridgeman: A Legendary Life Cut Short

Junior Bridgeman, a 12-year NBA veteran and one of America’s most successful businessmen, passed away at the age of 71. His untimely death occurred during the 45th Annual Leadership Luncheon on Scouting at The Galt House in Louisville, Kentucky. Bridgeman, who was being interviewed by WLKY reporter Kent Taylor as part of the event benefiting the Lincoln Heritage Council, suddenly expressed concern that he was experiencing a heart attack. Hundreds of attendees witnessed the medical emergency, and emergency services were immediately called. Despite the swift response and efforts to assist him, Bridgeman was pronounced dead after being transported to the hospital. His passing sent shockwaves through the basketball and business communities, as he was a beloved figure in both worlds.

Bridgeman’s connection to Louisville was deeply rooted, as it was the city where his basketball career first flourished before he became a respected leader, philanthropist, and business magnate. His legacy as a basketball legend and entrepreneurial icon left an indelible mark on the city and beyond.

College Basketball Stardom

Before his professional basketball career, Junior Bridgeman made a name for himself at the University of Louisville. From 1972 to 1975, he was a key player under Hall of Fame coach Denny Crum, leading the Cardinals to two Final Four appearances. His time at Louisville laid the foundation for his future success, both on and off the court. Bridgeman’s talent, work ethic, and determination caught the attention of NBA scouts, and he was selected as the eighth overall pick in the 1975 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers. However, he was quickly traded to the Milwaukee Bucks, the team with which he would spend the majority of his 12-year NBA career.

NBA Career and Business Empire

During his time with the Milwaukee Bucks, Bridgeman established himself as a reliable and versatile player. As a shooting guard and small forward, he averaged 13.9 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game, while shooting an impressive 47.8% from the field in 711 career games. His contributions to the Bucks were so significant that his No. 2 jersey was retired and hangs in Fiserv Forum, a testament to his impact on the franchise. Bridgeman also played for the Los Angeles Clippers from 1984 to 1986 before retiring from professional basketball.

However, Bridgeman’s true lasting legacy extends far beyond his basketball career. During his time in the NBA, he developed a keen eye for business, which would eventually make him a billionaire. His entrepreneurial journey began with small investments in Wendy’s fast-food restaurants, which blossomed into a massive empire of over 450 locations under the name Bridgeman Foods Inc. He also diversified his portfolio by venturing into Coca-Cola bottling operations and acquiring Ebony and Jet magazines, two iconic publications that played a significant role in African American culture.

By the time of his death, Forbes estimated Bridgeman’s net worth at $3.7 billion, solidifying his status as one of the most successful athlete-turned-businessmen in history. His ability to transition seamlessly from the basketball court to the boardroom was a rare and remarkable achievement.

Off the Court: A Philanthropic Legacy

Junior Bridgeman’s impact was not limited to his professional achievements. He was a dedicated philanthropist, especially in his hometown of Louisville, where he remained deeply involved in the community. The University of Louisville Athletics department released a heartfelt statement following his passing, calling him “a legend and beloved member of the Louisville basketball family.” The statement highlighted his “unmatched legacy” and expressed gratitude for the profound impact he had on the program, the university, and the city.

Bridgeman was also a minority owner of the Milwaukee Bucks, a role he cherished deeply. In a statement, the Bucks organization described him as “one of the nation’s top business leaders” and noted that his return as an owner in September 2022 marked a “full-circle moment” in his life. The franchise emphasized that his memory would continue to inspire the organization for years to come.

A City’s Hero

Junior Bridgeman’s death has left a void in the lives of countless individuals who admired him as a basketball legend, a business icon, and a devoted community leader. He is survived by his wife, Doris, and their three children—Eden, Justin, and Ryan. The outpouring of tributes and condolences reflects the profound impact he had on those who knew him and admired him from afar.

Bridgeman’s story is one of resilience, determination, and excellence. From his early days as a college basketball standout to his rise as a billionaire entrepreneur, he exemplified what it means to live a life of purpose and achievement. His legacy serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, entrepreneurs, and anyone striving to make a difference in the world.

Remembering Junior Bridgeman

Junior Bridgeman’s life was a testament to the power of hard work, vision, and kindness. While his basketball career brought him fame and admiration, it was his business acumen and philanthropic spirit that cemented his legacy as one of the most influential figures of his generation. As the world mourns his passing, it also celebrates a life well-lived and the countless lives he touched along the way. His memory will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations to pursue greatness, both on and off the court.