“The smartest player I ever coached.” That’s how Louisville coach Denny Crum once described Junior Bridgeman. The 6-foot-6 former Louisville star passed away at 71 after suffering a medical emergency during a luncheon for the Boy Scouts in Louisville, Kentucky. Bridgeman was one of a kind, leaving behind a legacy that reached far beyond the basketball court.
Calipari summed up the feeling around this loss perfectly: “I’m in shock and so sad hearing that Junior Bridgeman passed away. One of the nicest and caring people I’ve ever met. He was successful in everything he did.” JC added, “He was always looking for win-win opportunities. He treated people right. He was a beacon of hope for many and a mentor to anyone that asked his help. My prayers to his wife, children and extended family. This one hurts deep. RIP.”
I’m in shock and so sad hearing that Junior Bridgeman passed away. One of the nicest and caring person I’ve ever met. He was successful in everything he did. He was always looking for win win opportunities. He treated people right. He was beacon of hope for many and a mentor to…
— John Calipari (@CoachCalArk) March 11, 2025
Bridgeman’s career after basketball was just as impressive as his time on the court. While still playing, he started investing in Wendy’s franchises, knowing his NBA salary wouldn’t last forever. After retiring, he grew that into Bridgeman Foods, running over 450 Wendy’s and Chili’s restaurants across 20 states until 2016.
He didn’t stop there. Bridgeman became an independent Coca-Cola bottler and later helped his family buy Ebony and Jet magazines, keeping two important African American publications alive. In September 2024, he made headlines again by buying a 10% stake in the Milwaukee Bucks — the team where he made his mark as a player — in a deal that valued the franchise at $4 billion.
Bridgeman stayed connected to Louisville throughout his life. He served as Chairman of the University of Louisville’s Board of Trustees from 2003 to 2005 and returned briefly in 2016. The EX-NBA star also held seats on several boards, including Fifth Third Bank and the Louisville Free Public Library.
He co-chaired the capital campaign for the African American Heritage Foundation and was part of the original board of the Louisville Arena Authority, which helped secure financing for the KFC Yum! Center — a huge win for the city’s sports and entertainment scene.
Despite earning about $350,000 a year during his NBA career, smart business moves pushed his net worth to around $1.4 billion, making him one of the wealthiest former athletes in the world. Bridgeman always stressed the importance of generational wealth and often shared that advice with younger athletes. Last year, he told ESPN how proud he was that his three kids had stepped into different parts of the family business.
Reflecting on life after basketball, Bridgeman once said, “It was fun. People said, ‘How could it be fun?’ It was. It was fun — like playing basketball.”
That’s who Junior Bridgeman was — a legend on and off the court, leaving behind a legacy that will last for generations.
John Calipari and others remembering the great Player
Bridgeman’s story really is incredible. He rose from humble beginnings to become not just a standout player but one of the most successful post-playing businessmen in sports history. Bridgeman’s impact went far beyond basketball — he was the kind of person people admired both on and off the court.
Jeff Goodman reflected on the loss: “So sad to hear about the news of former Louisville star, NBA player and philanthropist Junior Bridgeman. Bridgeman, 71, passed away today after collapsing at a luncheon for the Boy Scouts today in Louisville. Bridgeman was a star in college for Denny Crum, played for the Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Clippers and was a successful businessman who did a ton for the Louisville community.”
Bridgeman’s basketball roots ran deep. He grew up in East Chicago, Indiana. In 1971, he led the Washington High School Senators to a perfect 29-0 record and a state championship. That success carried over to Louisville. He became an All-American and helped lead the Cardinals to the 1975 Final Four under Denny Crum.
Rick Pitino also paid tribute: “So sad to hear the news of the passing of Junior Bridgeman. Such a great and humble man. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.”
Bridgeman’s kindness and generosity left a lasting mark on the people around him. Seth Davis captured that sentiment perfectly: “Google Junior Bridgeman kids. He was what we all aspire to be.” Bridgeman’s children have followed in his footsteps in different ways, carrying on his legacy of hard work and humility.
He played in the NBA from 1975 to 1987, spending most of his career with the Bucks (1975–1984, 1986–1987). Also had a two-year stint with the Los Angeles Clippers (1984–1986). The No.2 retired MB primarily played as a small forward and shooting guard, wearing the No. 2 jersey.
Doug Gottlieb highlighted the significance of Bridgeman’s success: “Junior Bridgeman’s story should be mandatory learning for college athletes. Just an amazing American success story. RIP.”
Mark Pope, Kentucky’s current head coach, also shared his thoughts: “Condolences to the friends and family of Junior Bridgeman, a college basketball and NBA great, and a giant in the state of Kentucky,” Pope wrote on X, formerly Twitter. “He made a powerful impact throughout our commonwealth, and we will remember him fondly.”
He leaves behind a legacy of excellence, integrity, and generosity. His impact on Louisville, the NBA, and the business world will be felt for years to come.
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