The sports world is mourning the loss of Junior Bridgeman, the former Milwaukee Bucks player who turned his retirement from basketball into a billion-dollar business empire and a stake in his old team.
Bridgeman’s transition from basketball to business was nothing short of remarkable. The one-time University of Louisville legend amassed a diverse portfolio that included hundreds of Wendy’s and Chili’s franchises, a Coca-Cola bottling distribution company that spanned three states and Canada, as well as ownership of renowned Ebony and Jet Magazines.
Bridgeman, known as well for 12 years as a small forward/shooting with the Milwaukee Bucks, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 71. His death has created a void in both the basketball and the business worlds, where he was widely admired as a self-made success.
“The Milwaukee Bucks are shocked and saddened by the tragic passing of Bucks legend and owner Junior Bridgeman,” the team said in a statement.
“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.”
Bridgeman, who was a key figure in the Bucks’ history, was not only known for his impressive career on the court but also for his inspirational impact off it. In addition to being a former player, Bridgeman was a minority owner of the Bucks, cementing his lasting connection to the franchise.
During his 12-year NBA career, Bridgeman earned just $2.95 million, with his highest season salary being $350,000. (The average salary in the NBA in 2025 is $11.9 million.) Despite this, by now, modest earnings in comparison, Bridgeman was a forward thinker who turned his earnings into an enterprise estimated to be worth $1.4 billion.
Additionally, he made notable investments in NBA Africa, further cementing his legacy within the global sports community.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver expressed his condolences, highlighting Bridgeman’s contributions both on and off the court. “I am devastated to learn of the sudden passing of Junior Bridgeman,” Silver said.
“Junior was the ultimate entrepreneur who built on his impactful 12-year NBA playing career by becoming a highly respected and successful business leader. Junior was a dedicated member of the NBA family for 50 years — most recently as a minority owner of the Milwaukee Bucks, an investor in NBA Africa.”
Despite his wealth and success, those who knew him often spoke of his humility and dedication to his family, friends, and community.
Junior Bridgeman is survived by his wife, Doris, and their children, Eden, Justin, and Ryan. His passing has left a void in the lives of those who knew him, from former teammates to business partners. He will be remembered not just for his impressive accomplishments on the basketball court but for the legacy he built as a business mogul and philanthropist.