Junior Bridgeman, former Milwaukee Bucks star and successful businessman, has passed away at the age of 71. According to the reports, he suffered a fatal heart attack on March 11, 2025, during an interview in Louisville. Known for his contributions both on and off the court, Junior Bridgeman built a remarkable legacy in basketball and business, and his death has left fans in shock.
Here’s what we know so far about Junior Bridgeman’s death.
Junior Bridgeman passes away at 71, claims report
Junior Bridgeman, former Milwaukee Bucks star and businessman, passed away on March 11, 2025, at 71.
He suffered a fatal heart attack during a live interview at the Galt House Hotel in Louisville. Emergency personnel responded, but Bridgeman did not survive.
Russell Wilson expressed his grief on X (formerly Twitter), writing, “So sad. Literally was on the phone with Junior 10 days ago. Devastating. Life comes and goes when we least expect it. Keep praying and hold your loved ones. Thanks, Junior for all you meant to me and so many others. You are the example we all aspire to be.”
Born in East Chicago, Indiana, Bridgeman played college basketball at Louisville, leading the Cardinals to the 1975 Final Four. He was selected eighth overall in the 1975 NBA Draft by the Lakers and traded to Milwaukee for Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. He played 12 seasons in the NBA, primarily with the Bucks, averaging 13.6 points per game.
Bridgeman served as president of the National Basketball Players Association from 1985 to 1988. He later became a successful businessman, owning over 450 fast-food franchises and acquiring Ebony and Jet magazines. In 2024, he purchased a 10% stake in the Bucks, and by 2025, his net worth exceeded $1.4 billion. (via New York Post)
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver called Bridgeman “the ultimate entrepreneur,” highlighting his mentorship to athletes (via NBA). Milwaukee Bucks coach Doc Rivers described him as “the exact model the league should use every day when they are talking to our young players.”
Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg said, “He was an All-American at U of L… and a self-made billionaire. Yet I will most remember Junior Bridgeman for his quiet, impactful assistance to others in need.”
Originally reported by Anubhav Chaudhry on ComingSoon.net.
