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.

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.

The late basketball star and businessman left behind three children after he died in 2025. Learn more about Bridgeman's family here.