**Meta:** Junior Bridgeman, NBA veteran and businessman, has passed away at 71. Discover his legacy and impact on basketball and business.
**Content:**
### Junior Bridgeman Passes Away at 71
**Who:** Junior Bridgeman, a 12-year NBA veteran and successful businessman.
**What:** Bridgeman died following a medical emergency.
**When:** The incident occurred during the 45th Annual Leadership Luncheon on Scouting on Tuesday.
**Where:** The Galt House in Louisville, Kentucky.
**Why:** Bridgeman reportedly expressed feeling like he was having a heart attack during an interview.
Emergency services were called immediately, and attendees rushed to assist him. He was transported by ambulance but unfortunately passed away later. Bridgeman was a basketball legend in Louisville, where he also became a prominent business leader and philanthropist.
### Bridgeman’s Basketball Career
– Played college basketball at the University of Louisville from 1972-75.
– Achieved two Final Four appearances under coach Denny Crum.
– Selected as the eighth overall pick in the 1975 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers.
– Spent the majority of his 12-year NBA career with the Milwaukee Bucks, playing all but two seasons there.
– Averaged 13.9 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.5 assists in 711 career games for the Bucks.
The Milwaukee Bucks released a statement expressing their shock and sadness at his passing, highlighting his contributions to the team and the community. Bridgeman’s No. 2 jersey is retired and hangs in Fiserv Forum as a tribute to his legacy.
### Bridgeman’s Business Ventures
Bridgeman was not only a basketball player but also a savvy businessman. He began investing in Wendy’s fast-food restaurants, which grew into a 450-restaurant empire known as Bridgeman Foods Inc. He also ventured into Coca-Cola bottling operations and owned Ebony and Jet magazines.
### Conclusion
Junior Bridgeman’s legacy as both a basketball player and a businessman will be remembered for years to come. How do you think his contributions to sports and business will influence future generations?
**FAQs:**
**Q: What teams did Junior Bridgeman play for in the NBA?**
A: Junior Bridgeman played for the Milwaukee Bucks for the majority of his career and also had a stint with the Los Angeles Clippers from 1984-86.
