Junior Bridgeman, a notable figure in both the sports and business worlds, has passed away at the age of 71. Known for his impressive 12-season career in the NBA and his subsequent rise as a billionaire entrepreneur, Bridgeman's legacy spans over five decades. He left an indelible mark on the Milwaukee Bucks, where he played the majority of his basketball career, and in the business sector, where he built a fast-food empire.
Bridgeman's NBA journey began in 1975 when the Los Angeles Lakers drafted him. However, before he had the chance to play for them, he was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks. He went on to play ten seasons with the Bucks and two seasons with the Los Angeles Clippers. Over his NBA career, Bridgeman averaged 13.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.4 assists in 25 minutes per game. Despite his contributions on the court, he earned around $2.95 million in his career, with no single-season earnings surpassing $350,000.
Reflecting on his basketball career, Bridgeman once remarked:
"It was. It was fun — like playing basketball." – Junior Bridgeman
A testament to his legacy with the Bucks, Bridgeman's retired No. 2 jersey hangs in Fiserv Forum as a tribute to his outstanding play and significant impact on the team's success.
"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." – Bucks organization
After retiring from professional basketball, Bridgeman channelled his competitive spirit into business. He became a highly respected business leader and a billionaire philanthropist. At its peak, his fast-food empire consisted of over 450 restaurants nationwide. In September 2022, Bridgeman purchased a 10% stake in the Milwaukee Bucks, reaffirming his enduring connection to the team. His net worth exceeded $1.4 billion by February 2023, as reported by Forbes.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver praised Bridgeman for his entrepreneurial achievements:
"Junior was the ultimate entrepreneur who built on his impactful 12-year NBA playing career by becoming a highly respected and successful business leader." – Adam Silver
Bridgeman's influence extended beyond the United States as he invested in NBA Africa, further contributing to the growth and popularity of basketball globally. As a minority owner of the Milwaukee Bucks and through his investments, Bridgeman continued to shape the sport he loved. His leadership skills were also evident during his tenure as president of the National Basketball Players Association from 1985 to 1988.
Throughout his life, Junior Bridgeman exemplified dedication and excellence both on and off the court. His contributions to basketball and business have left a lasting impact on many lives.
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