The Milwaukee Bucks were saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Junior Bridgeman, who #2 hangs in the rafters of Fiserv Forum, one of just nine players in franchise history to have his number retired by the organization. But more than a great player, Bridgeman was a philanthropist, self-made billionaire, and one of the kindest figures in professional sports.
On Tuesday, Bridgeman suffered what is being described as a medical emergency that many reports state was likely a heart attack. Just last year, the former Bucks star had purchased a 10% stake in the franchise that drafted him back in 1975.
Following the news of his passing, multiple NBA legends revealed the profound impact that he had on their lives, both on and off the court.
NBA Legend Magic Johnson Releases Statement Following the Passing of Milwaukee Bucks Great Junior Bridgeman
One of the great NBA players who was influenced, both on the court and off it, by Bridgeman was Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson.
Following the news of Bridgeman’s passing, Johnson posted the following message on X (formerly Twitter):
“I’m saddened to hear of the passing of my friend Junior Bridgeman. I had the privilege of playing against him, and I’ll never forget how he had one of the sweetest jump shots in the NBA. But it was his character, his kindness, and his gentle soul that truly left a lasting impression on me. He was one of the nicest guys you would ever want to meet.
“What people don’t realize is Junior didn’t make a fortune as a player, but he turned what he earned into something extraordinary, becoming a billionaire African American businessman in this country. His business portfolio included owning 450 Wendy’s and Chili’s franchises in 20 states, Coca-Cola bottling operations in the US and Canada, Ebony and Jet magazines, Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, and he was a minority owner of the Milwaukee Bucks.
“Junior also served on the boards of PGA of America, Churchill Downs Inc, Fifth Third Bank, Jackson Hewitt, Governors Scholar Program, Crusade for Children Foundation, University of Louisville’s Board of Trustees, Louisville Arena Authority, and more. He is the blueprint to so many current and former athletes across sports that success doesn’t end when you’re done playing.
“Beyond business, Junior and his wife Doris made a lasting impact by opening doors for African Americans at the Kentucky Derby. Through their annual pre-Derby party and fundraising efforts, they gave access to so many, including myself, to experience this iconic event – something that had historically been out of reach for many in our community.
“Thank you, Junior, for being an inspiration on how to be a man, a husband, a father, and a businessman. You spent so much of your post-playing career mentoring and educating athletes and I always reference your journey when I speak to young athletes about transitioning from the court or field to the boardroom.
“Your legacy will transcend beyond your financial success to the doors you opened for so many and inspiring generations to come. Rest in peace, my friend. Cookie and I will be praying for his wife Doris, kids Eden, Justin, and Ryan, and the entire Bridgeman family.”
Up until recently, no player had played more games in a Bucks uniform than Bridgeman. Now, only Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton have played more.
Far too few know about how important he was to the Bucks franchise, both as a player and owner.
The NBA world and the Milwaukee community lost a legend today.
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