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Junior Bridgeman: Legendary NBA Player and Billionaire Entrepreneur
The Tragic Passing of a Basketball Legend
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Passing | Junior Bridgeman died of a heart attack on Tuesday at the age of 71. The basketball world mourns the loss of one of its finest, a player who made a lasting impact on and off the court. |
| NBA Career | Drafted in the 8th position by the Los Angeles Lakers in 1975, Junior Bridgeman was immediately traded to the Milwaukee Bucks, where he spent the majority of his career as a key sixth man. His number 2 jersey had been retired by the Bucks in 1988, a testament to his legendary status within the franchise. |
| Investments and Business Ventures | After his playing days, Bridgeman transformed himself into a billionaire with a net worth estimated at $1.4 billion, according to Forbes. His investment portfolio included iconic companies like Coca-Cola and Ebony and Jet magazines. Last September, he became a minority owner of the Milwaukee Bucks, further solidifying his connection to the NBA, after he had also made investments in the NBA Africa initiative in 2021. |
| Impact and Legacy | NBA Commissioner Adam Silver expressed his condolences, stating, “I am devastated to learn of the sudden death of Junior Bridgeman.” He praised Bridgeman’s mentorship to generations of NBA players and athletes from other sports who sought his advice on business ventures. Bridgeman’s legacy extends far beyond the basketball court, impacting the lives of many. |