He became an entrepreneur during a solid career with the Milwaukee Bucks. He later bought hundreds of fast-food outlets, a Coca-Cola bottling business and Ebony and Jet magazines.

Bridgeman, who played 12 NBA seasons, died Tuesday at 71. He became an astute businessman, fast-food franchise owner, 10 percent owner of the Bucks, and finally a billionaire.

Bridgeman, known as well for 12 years as a small forward/shooting with the Milwaukee Bucks, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 71. His death has created a void in both the basketball and the business worlds, where he was widely admired as a self-made success.

Junior Bridgeman, a former NBA pro who served on the PGA of America board and was an owner in Valhalla Golf Club, died Tuesday in Louisville, Kentucky. He was 71. "The PGA of America mourns the passing of Junior Bridgeman,

Former Bucks star Junior Bridgeman, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 71, built an empire spanning restaurants, publishing, and more.

Junior Bridgeman, who left a lasting legacy on the basketball court during his career with the Milwaukee Bucks and later off the court as a business mogul, has died. He was 71 years old. Bridgeman suffered a medical emergency at a fundraising event in Louisville on Tuesday, according to reports.