Junior Bridgeman, NBA Legend and Billionaire Entrepreneur, Dies at 71

The former Milwaukee Bucks star and business trailblazer passed away following a medical emergency at a Louisville fundraiser.

Junior Bridgeman, a 12-year NBA veteran and former Milwaukee Bucks player, passed away at age 71 after a medical emergency during a luncheon in Louisville, Kentucky.
Bridgeman was known for his post-NBA career success, building a $1.4 billion business empire through fast-food franchises, Coca-Cola bottling operations, and media investments.
He owned and operated over 450 Wendy’s and Chili’s restaurants before selling most in 2016 to focus on other ventures, including acquiring a 10% stake in the Milwaukee Bucks in 2024.
A passionate advocate for financial literacy, Bridgeman frequently mentored athletes on building generational wealth and transitioning from sports to business.
Tributes from the NBA community, including Magic Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal, and Commissioner Adam Silver, highlighted Bridgeman’s kindness, humility, and lasting impact on and off the court.