• Faith: Christian
• Career: Athlete and Businessman
• Birthday:  September 17, 1953
• Date of Death:  March 11, 2025

Junior Bridgeman was a businessman and former professional basketball player. He played in the NBA for the Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Clippers from 1975 to 1987. Bridgeman owned Ebony and Jet magazines. Although he never earned more than $350,000 a season during his NBA career, his net worth exceeded $600 million, making him one of the richest former athletes globally.

Ulysses Lee "Junior" Bridgeman was born on September 17, 1953, in East Chicago, Indiana. Growing up in a working-class household, he developed a strong work ethic and a passion for basketball from an early age. Bridgeman attended Washington High School, where he excelled on the basketball court and helped lead his team to an Indiana state championship in 1971. His leadership and talent drew attention from college recruiters across the country, setting the stage for his next chapter in basketball.

Bridgeman chose to stay close to home and play for the University of Louisville, where he became one of the program’s most celebrated players. Under the guidance of Coach Denny Crum, he played a key role in the Cardinals' success during the early 1970s. Bridgeman was known for his versatile skill set, combining scoring, rebounding, and defensive prowess to become a standout player in the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC).

During his college career, Bridgeman averaged 15.5 points and 7.6 rebounds per game, earning All-MVC honors. His leadership helped propel Louisville to the 1975 NCAA Tournament Final Four, cementing his legacy as one of the school’s greats. His success at Louisville made him a highly sought-after prospect for the NBA, leading to his selection in the 1975 NBA Draft.

Bridgeman was selected 8th overall in the 1975 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers but was quickly traded to the Milwaukee Bucks as part of the blockbuster deal that sent Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to the Lakers. Though he was never an NBA superstar, Bridgeman became one of the league’s most reliable and consistent sixth men, thriving in a supporting role.

During his 12-year NBA career (1975–1987), mostly with the Bucks, Bridgeman became known for his scoring ability off the bench, high basketball IQ, and leadership. He played a crucial role in Milwaukee’s playoff-contending teams during the late 1970s and early 1980s. While he never made an All-Star appearance, Bridgeman's impact was deeply felt, especially in Milwaukee, where he became a fan favorite and a respected veteran leader.

While many athletes struggle to transition after retirement, Bridgeman became one of the most successful former NBA players in business history. During his playing days, he studied the business world and began investing in franchises, a decision that would prove to be life-changing. Bridgeman's entrepreneurial success made him one of the wealthiest former athletes, with an estimated net worth of over $600 million. He later sold most of his fast-food holdings and diversified into bottling and media, acquiring Coca-Cola bottling plants and purchasing Ebony and Jet magazines in 2020.

On March 11, 2025, Junior Bridgeman passed away at the age of 71. His death was mourned by the NBA community, business leaders, and his church family, as tributes poured in from former teammates, colleagues, and fans.

Was Junior Bridgeman Religious?

Bridgeman was a man of deep Christian faith, which played a significant role in his life both during and after basketball. He was an active member of Southeast Christian Church, a Louisville megachurch known for its strong community outreach and commitment to the gospel.

His faith influenced his approach to business, leadership, and philanthropy. Bridgeman often spoke about the importance of integrity, humility, and serving others, values that aligned with his Christian beliefs. He was involved in numerous charitable efforts, particularly focusing on youth education and community development.

Even as his business empire grew, Bridgeman remained committed to his church and faith, frequently supporting Christian-based initiatives and emphasizing the role of God’s guidance in his success.