Junior Bridgeman, former Milwaukee Bucks player and successful entrepreneur, has acquired a 10% ownership stake in the team. The announcement was made during a press conference attended by co-owner Jimmy Haslam, coach Doc Rivers, general manager Jon Horst, and most of the current Bucks roster.
Bridgeman, now 71 years old, expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity, stating, "It felt like a natural progression to become physically part of the organization, not just in spirit." His connection to the Bucks spans nearly five decades, having played for the team from 1975 to 1984 and again in the 1986-87 season.
During his tenure with the Bucks, Bridgeman left an indelible mark on the franchise. He ranks third in games played for Milwaukee with 711, surpassed only by current stars Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton. His contributions to the team are further highlighted by his standing in various statistical categories, including seventh in field goals made (4,142), ninth in points scored (9,892), and tenth in minutes played (18,054).
Bridgeman's journey from player to owner is a testament to his business acumen. After retiring from basketball, he ventured into the restaurant industry, eventually becoming the owner and CEO of Bridgeman Foods. The company operated over 450 Wendy's and Chili's restaurants across 20 states until 2016. Bridgeman's entrepreneurial spirit didn't stop there; he also became an independent bottler for Coca-Cola and, more recently, acquired ownership of Ebony and Jet magazines.
The former NBA player's success extends beyond the court and boardroom. Bridgeman served as the President of the National Basketball Players Association and won the J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award in 1986. His philanthropic efforts and business insights have made him a sought-after motivational speaker.
Bridgeman's jersey, number 2, was retired by the Bucks in 1988, cementing his legacy with the franchise. Now, 36 years later, he joins the ownership group that includes Jimmy Haslam, Wesley Edens, Jamie Dinan, and Mike Fascitelli.
This acquisition marks a full-circle moment for Bridgeman, who was initially drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers in 1975 but was immediately traded to the Bucks. His journey from rookie to team owner spans nearly half a century, during which he has become one of the wealthiest former athletes, with a net worth estimated at $600 million as of 2021.
Bridgeman's story serves as an inspiration for current and future athletes, demonstrating the potential for success beyond their playing careers. His induction into the Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame in 1999 and recognition as one of the 50 Greatest Players in Louisville Basketball History underscore his impact both on and off the court.
As the Bucks continue to compete at the highest level of the NBA, Bridgeman's addition to the ownership group brings a unique perspective – that of a player who knows the franchise intimately and an entrepreneur who has succeeded in multiple industries. This blend of experiences could prove valuable as the team navigates the challenges of modern professional sports ownership.
"When this opportunity presented itself, it just felt like a natural thing for me to get a chance to be part — not just in heart — but physically, of the organization going forward."
The addition of Bridgeman to the Bucks' ownership group not only strengthens the team's connection to its storied past but also potentially opens new avenues for growth and success in the future.