Junior Bridgeman, the former Milwaukee Bucks guard turned business mogul, has passed away at the age of 71. According to USA Today, Bridgeman was transported to the hospital after suffering from a medical emergency at a fundraising event in his hometown of Louisville.
What Was Junior Bridgeman’s Cause of Death?
WLKY-TV later reported that while speaking at the event, he believed he was suffering from a heart attack which prompted medical services to be called, and he was driven out in an ambulance.
The Bucks issued a statement earlier today announcing his passing: “We are heartbroken by Junior’s passing, and we send our deepest condolences to his wife, Doris, his children, Eden, Justin, and Ryan, his entire family, and all those close to him.”
The Bucks added: “His hard work and perseverance led him to become one of the nation’s top business leaders, and last September, Junior’s professional life came full circle when he returned to the Bucks family as an owner. His memory will always be an inspiration to the Bucks organization.”
Bridgeman’s Career in the NBA
Bridgeman started his basketball journey at the University of Louisville before being selected No. 8 overall in the 1975 Draft by the Bucks.
He went on to play 12 seasons in the NBA, two with the Los Angeles Clippers and 10 with the Bucks, first from 1975 to 1984 and again from 1986 to 1987. He became a standout player throughout the 70s and 80s, playing a pivotal role on an excellent Bucks team.
Under head coach Don Nelson and alongside five-time All-Star Sidney Moncrief, he helped lead the Bucks to significant success during the 1980s.
Despite never winning a championship, the Bucks were a formidable opponent, making the Eastern Conference Finals three times in 1983, 1984, and 1986.
Bridgeman’s contributions were eventually honored when the franchise retired his number. He averaged 13.9 points 3.5 rebounds and 2.4 assists over 849 games in his NBA career. Of those, 711 were in a Bucks uniform where he ranked third in games played. He is also seventh in field goals made, ninth in total points, and 10th in minutes played.
In September 2024, he rejoined the Bucks organization as part of the ownership.
Bridgeman’s Endeavor Outside of Basketball
Beyond basketball, Bridgeman has had a significant impact in the business world.
He made smart business decisions as he acquired 450 fast food chains including different Wendy’s, Pizza Hut and Chili’s restaurant locations, along with acquiring Coca-Cola bottling distribution. He also bought the Ebony and Jet Magazines in 2020.
Bridgeman’s entrepreneurial success allowed him to pass on his wealth to his three children: Eden, Justin, and Ryan.