Junior Bridgeman, Former NBA Star and Successful Businessman, Dies at 71
Written by Site Hub on March 12, 2025
Junior Bridgeman, former NBA star and business mogul, passed away at 71 after suffering a medical emergency at a fundraising event in Louisville. A standout at the University of Louisville, he led the Cardinals to the 1975 Final Four before being drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers and traded to the Milwaukee Bucks as part of the Kareem Abdul-Jabbar deal. Bridgeman played 12 seasons in the NBA, primarily with the Bucks, and his No. 2 jersey was retired by the team.
After basketball, he built a business empire, operating over 450 Wendy’s and Chili’s franchises, becoming a Coca-Cola bottler, and purchasing Ebony and Jet magazines. He later returned to the Bucks as a minority owner, completing his career full circle.
Tributes poured in from NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, Magic Johnson, and Sen. Mitch McConnell, all recognizing his impact as an athlete, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. Bridgeman leaves behind a legacy of excellence both on and off the court, serving as an inspiration for athletes pursuing business success.
Source: AP News
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