Junior Bridgeman NBA Legend Dies at 71
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) – Junior Bridgeman NBA Legend Dies at 71, leaving behind a remarkable legacy. The former Milwaukee Bucks star and Louisville Cardinals standout made his mark in basketball before building a successful business empire.
Bridgeman was a respected figure in Louisville for his basketball career and business achievements. Mayor Craig Greenberg honored him as a “generous and inspirational legend.”
“He was an All-American at Louisville and a self-made billionaire,” Greenberg said. “But most of all, he was known for his kindness, deep love for his family, and unwavering support for our community.”
Senator Mitch McConnell also paid tribute, calling Bridgeman a successful businessman and dedicated philanthropist with a deep love for Louisville.
Reports say Bridgeman suffered a medical emergency at a Louisville hotel during a fundraising event on Tuesday.
A Remarkable NBA Career
Bridgeman grew up in East Chicago, Indiana, and played under legendary coach Denny Crum at the University of Louisville. Over three seasons, he scored 1,348 points and grabbed 657 rebounds. As a senior, he led the Cardinals to the 1975 NCAA Final Four, where they lost to UCLA in a close game.
His professional career began with a blockbuster trade. The Los Angeles Lakers selected him as the 8th overall pick in the 1975 NBA Draft. Soon after, they traded him to Milwaukee in the deal that sent Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to Los Angeles.
Bridgeman played 711 games for the Bucks, ranking third in franchise history behind Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton. In 1988, the Bucks retired his No. 2 jersey.
The Bucks organization praised his work ethic and leadership, calling him one of the most respected figures in sports and business.
Milwaukee Bucks coach Doc Rivers described him as a role model.
“Imagine a kid growing up with dreams of playing in the NBA. Not only did he achieve that, but he also became a team owner. He’s the perfect example of what young athletes should aspire to be,” Rivers said.
From NBA Star to Business Mogul
Bridgeman retired from the NBA in 1987 and transitioned into business. He built a restaurant empire, operating over 450 Wendy’s and Chili’s locations across 20 states. Later, he expanded into beverage distribution by becoming a Coca-Cola bottler. He also acquired Ebony and Jet magazines, preserving two historic African American publications.
“His business leadership was even more extraordinary than his basketball career,” said University of Louisville President Kim Schatzel.
NBA legend Magic Johnson praised Bridgeman’s achievements, noting how he used his earnings wisely.
“Junior didn’t become wealthy from basketball. He built his fortune through intelligence, hard work, and vision—becoming one of the most successful African American entrepreneurs in the country,” Johnson wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Bridgeman also invested in Valhalla Golf Club and served on the boards of Churchill Downs, the University of Louisville, and Fifth Third Bank.
A Legacy of Giving
Beyond business, Bridgeman remained committed to philanthropy. He and his wife, Doris, hosted an annual Kentucky Derby charity event to support community initiatives.
“He’s the blueprint for athletes who prove that success continues after sports,” Johnson said.
Bridgeman is survived by his wife, Doris, and three children: Eden, Justin, and Ryan.