Junior Bridgeman Louisville legend and business icon mourned after his passing. He passed away at 71 after suffering a heart attack during a leadership luncheon in Louisville on Tuesday.
Junior Bridgeman Louisville Turned Business Titan
Born in East Chicago, Indiana, Bridgeman played for UofL from 1972 to 1975, leading the team to two Final Four appearances.After being selected in the NBA draft, he played with the Milwaukee Bucks for the majority of his 12-year career, with a brief stint with the Los Angeles Clippers.
From NBA to Business Empire: Bridgeman built a business empire both during and after his NBA career.
- Fast-food tycoon: After acquiring Wendy’s, he later acquired over 450 restaurants under the Bridgeman Foods Inc. name, selling most of them in 2016.
- Coca-Cola & Media: He bought Jet and Ebony magazines and owned the Coca-Cola bottling companies.
- Sports Ownership: In 2024, he bought a small share in the Milwaukee Bucks.
A Lasting Legacy
Bridgeman is among the wealthiest retired athletes, with a net worth of over $1 billion as a result of his accomplishment. He served on multiple boards, including Simmons College and the University of Louisville, and was also a philanthropist.
Bridgeman’s three children, Eden, Justin, and Ryan, as well as his wife, Doris, survive him. Generations to come will remember his achievements to business, athletics, and Louisville.
A Lasting Legacy
Bridgeman is among the wealthiest retired athletes, with a net worth of over $1 billion as a result of his accomplishment. He served on multiple boards, including Simmons College and the University of Louisville, and was also a philanthropist.
Bridgeman’s three children, Eden, Justin, and Ryan, as well as his wife, Doris, survive him. Generations to come will remember his achievements to business, athletics, and Louisville.
Source: WLKY
