Former NBA player Junior Bridgeman, who became one of the most successful post-basketball entrepreneurs in history, has died at the age of 71. The news of his passing was confirmed on Monday, leaving the basketball and business communities mourning the loss of a legend.
Bridgeman, known for his tenure with the Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Clippers, later amassed a fortune in the business world, making him one of the wealthiest former athletes. Reports indicate that Junior Bridgeman suffered a heart attack, though official confirmation on the cause of death is still pending.
Junior Bridgeman: From NBA Star to Business Mogul
Bridgeman played 12 seasons in the NBA, primarily with the Milwaukee Bucks, where he became a reliable scorer and leader. He was drafted in 1975 and remained a key figure in the Bucks’ rotation throughout the late ’70s and early ’80s.
However, it was off the court where Bridgeman made an even bigger impact. While still playing, he began investing in fast food franchises, eventually turning those investments into a multi-billion-dollar empire.
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Junior Bridgeman ‘s Net Worth and Business Success
After retiring from basketball in 1987, Bridgeman purchased several Wendy’s and Chili’s franchises, building his business portfolio into a powerhouse. At the time of his passing, Junior Bridgeman’s net worth’s estimated to be over $600 million, making him one of the wealthiest former athletes in the world.
He later sold his fast-food empire and shifted his focus to Bridgeman Foods Inc., which expanded into bottling and food distribution. He also became a partial owner of the Milwaukee Bucks and invested in various industries, including media.
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A Legacy in Louisville and Beyond
Bridgeman’s impact stretched beyond basketball and business—his philanthropy and leadership left a lasting mark, particularly in his hometown of Louisville, Kentucky. He supported numerous charitable initiatives focused on education, economic development, and community outreach.
Fans and former teammates have paid tribute, celebrating his contributions both on and off the court.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver released a statement, calling Bridgeman “a true pioneer who set an example for athletes beyond the game.”
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Tributes Pour In for Junior Bridgeman
As news of Junior Bridgeman’s death spread, tributes poured in from the sports world and business community:
- Milwaukee Bucks statement: “Junior Bridgeman was a Bucks icon and an inspiration to generations of players and entrepreneurs.”
- Former teammate Sidney Moncrief: “He taught us how to prepare for life after basketball.”
- Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg: “A Louisville legend whose influence will be felt for years to come.”
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