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[Saba Sports News] Former NBA player Junior Bridgeman, who built a highly successful career as an entrepreneur after his playing days, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 71 following a medical emergency.
Bridgeman collapsed during a luncheon for the Lincoln Heritage Council of the Boy Scouts of America at the Galt House Hotel in downtown Louisville, Kentucky, according to WDRB.
A basketball standout from an early age, Bridgeman was a high school state champion in Indiana before starring at the University of Louisville. He was a two-time conference player of the year and helped lead the Cardinals to the Final Four in 1975.
In September, Bridgeman was announced as a 10-percent owner of the Milwaukee Bucks, the team where he spent the majority of his NBA career. The Bucks released a statement mourning his passing, as did his alma mater, Louisville.
“Today we lost a legend and beloved member of the Louisville basketball family. Junior Bridgeman leaves an unmatched legacy, and we are forever grateful for the impact he’s made on our program, our university, and our city. We send our deepest condolences to the Bridgeman family and all who loved him.”
Bridgeman’s influence extended far beyond basketball. After retiring from the NBA, he became a business titan, turning his modest post-playing career investments into a vast fast-food empire and later expanding into media and other ventures. His success made him one of the wealthiest former athletes in the world, a testament to his vision and entrepreneurial drive.