Former NBA star and highly successful businessman Junior Bridgeman has passed away at the age of 71, the Milwaukee Bucks announced Tuesday.
Bridgeman reportedly suffered a medical emergency at the Galt House Hotel in Louisville during a fundraising event. His passing marks the loss of not only a basketball icon but also a trailblazer in the business world, who turned his post-NBA career into a billion-dollar empire.
Bridgeman, a Louisville native, made his mark in the NBA as a key player for the Milwaukee Bucks. He was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers in 1975 but was quickly traded to Milwaukee, where he spent the majority of his 12-year career. Known for his versatility and scoring ability, he played an essential role coming off the bench, earning a reputation as one of the league’s most reliable sixth men.
By the time he retired in 1987, Bridgeman had played over 1,000 NBA games, averaging 13.6 points per game in his career. His impact on the Bucks franchise remains significant, and his contributions to the team’s success in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s are still remembered by fans.
While many athletes struggle to find their footing after retirement, Bridgeman seamlessly transitioned into the business world. Even during his playing days, he was preparing for life beyond basketball—working at Wendy’s during the offseasons to understand the fast-food industry.
That knowledge paid off. Bridgeman invested in Wendy’s and Chili’s franchises, eventually becoming one of the largest restaurant franchise owners in the country. His company, Bridgeman Foods Inc., owned over 450 Wendy’s and 120 Chili’s locations at its peak.
In 2016, he took his business empire to new heights by acquiring Ebony and Jet magazines, two historic publications in Black media. His leadership helped revitalize the brands, ensuring their continued influence in African American culture.
Bridgeman’s success extended far beyond basketball, serving as an inspiration for athletes looking to build generational wealth. His ability to pivot from sports to business made him one of the wealthiest former athletes, with an estimated net worth surpassing $600 million.
His passing leaves a void in both the sports and business worlds, but his impact will continue to inspire generations to come.
Rest in peace to a true legend.
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