The basketball world is mourning the loss of Junior Bridgeman, a Milwaukee Bucks legend and successful entrepreneur, who passed away at the age of 71. Bridgeman’s life was a testament to hard work, perseverance, and the ability to excel both on and off the court.
Bridgeman’s basketball journey began when 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 as part of the deal that sent Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to the Lakers. Over the course of his 12-year NBA career, including 10 seasons with the Bucks, Bridgeman became a fan favorite for his consistent play and leadership. His best season came in 1979-80, when he averaged 17.6 points per game, helping the Bucks secure multiple playoff appearances. In recognition of his contributions, the Bucks retired his No. 2 jersey in 1988.
On Tuesday, Bridgeman tragically passed away after suffering a medical emergency during a fundraising event at the Galt House Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky. He was speaking at the event when he collapsed and was unable to recover.
While Bridgeman’s on-court achievements were remarkable, his post-basketball career was equally inspiring. After retiring, he transitioned into the business world, building an empire of over 450 fast-food franchises, including Wendy’s and Chili’s. In September 2024, Bridgeman returned to the Bucks family as a minority owner, bringing his journey full circle.
Bridgeman’s impact extended beyond basketball and business. He was a philanthropist and a role model, known for his humility and dedication to community service. The Milwaukee Bucks released a heartfelt statement, saying,
“Junior’s retired No. 2 jersey hangs in Fiserv Forum, serving as a constant remembrance of his outstanding play on the court and his impact on the Bucks’ success. His memory will always be an inspiration to the Bucks organization.”
We are shocked and saddened by the tragic passing of Bucks legend and owner Junior Bridgeman. We send our deepest condolences to his family. pic.twitter.com/XakoTcDeF5
— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) March 11, 2025
As the basketball community reflects on Bridgeman’s life, his story serves as a reminder of the power of determination and the importance of giving back. Junior Bridgeman was more than a basketball player; he was a pioneer, a leader, and an inspiration to generations.
