Junior Bridgeman was a lot of things.
From 1975-76 to 1983-84, he played as a wing for the Milwaukee Bucks, and again to finish out his 12-year NBA career in 1986-87.
Before that, he starred for the college program in Louisville. He became a billionaire businessman who invested in a wide range of enterprises, as well as a philanthropist. As part of these endeavors he bought a minority share in the Bucks franchise. He remained a member of ownership at the time of his death.
Earlier today, multiple outlets announced his passing following a medical emergency Bridgeman suffered while attending a Boy Scouts social event back in Louisville, taking place at the Galt House Hotel. In the wake of the news, many of the multiple organizations to which he forged ties during his life responded with condolences and sorrow.
Milwaukee Bucks, Louisville Communities Mourn Junior Bridgeman
Tuesday evening, the Bucks’ official twitter account posted a statement:
We are shocked and saddened by the tragic passing of Bucks legend and owner Junior Bridgeman. We send our deepest condolences to his family. pic.twitter.com/XakoTcDeF5
— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) March 11, 2025
As did Louisville Athletics:
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… pic.twitter.com/Xy5oxZ6kjU
— Louisville Athletics (@GoCards) March 11, 2025
And the Muhammed Ali Center:
Muhammad Ali Center statement on Junior Bridgeman passing pic.twitter.com/d4GBKqMR9Q
— Muhammad Ali Center (@AliCenter) March 11, 2025
Bridgeman made semi-regular appearances at Bucks games, where he the team celebrated his various achievements and even gave out Bridgeman bobbleheads. the team retired his no.2 jersey in 1988, when he first joined franchise ownership. More than just an athlete and extremely successful businessman, he was a well-liked figure and a social presence.
Key Cog on Bucks Roster, Remembered Fondly by Rival Kentuckians
Bridgeman may not be most remembered for days in the NBA, a testament to his great accomplishments away from the hardwood, but he was an important player for the Bucks’ playoff squads in the 1970s and ’80s. Averaging between 12.5 and 17.6 points during his first stint in Milwaukee, he helped his team reach the postseason in eight of his 10 years with the organization.
In the first five years of his career, he missed only two games total.
He finished his playing days averaging 13.6 points across 842 games played, along with 3.4 rebounds and 2.5 assists.
His status in Louisville may have been even greater, a presence that spilled over into the rivalry state of Kentucky. Long-time Wildcats coach John Calipari, as well as current coach Mark Pope, also expressed sadness at his passing:
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
Condolences to the friends and family of Junior Bridgeman, a college basketball and NBA great, and a giant in the state of Kentucky.
He made a powerful impact throughout our commonwealth, and we will remember him fondly.
— Mark Pope (@CoachMarkPope) March 11, 2025
Gone but not forgotten, as the saying goes. And he certainly won’t be. Chances are more eyes than normal will be directed toward no.2 when the Bucks host the Lakers on Thursday.
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