Junior Bridgeman, a Louisville basketball icon who led the Cardinals to a Final Four appearance and later found success in the NBA and as a prominent businessman, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 71, The Associated Press reports.
Bridgeman, known for his successful post-basketball career with ventures in restaurants, publishing, and even a stake in his former team, the Milwaukee Bucks, was a beloved figure in the Louisville community. His death was announced by Mayor Craig Greenberg, who described Bridgeman as “a kind, generous and groundbreaking legend.”
Senator Mitch McConnell echoed the sentiment, praising Bridgeman as a highly successful businessman, generous philanthropist, and ardent supporter of his alma mater and Louisville.
According to reports, Bridgeman suffered a medical emergency at a Louisville hotel during a fundraising event on Tuesday.
Tributes have poured in for the man who excelled both on the basketball court and in the corporate world.
A native of East Chicago, Indiana, Bridgeman played under Hall of Fame coach Denny Crum at the University of Louisville. In three seasons, he amassed 1,348 points and 657 rebounds, leading the Cardinals to the 1975 Final Four, where they narrowly lost to eventual national champion UCLA in a 75-74 thriller.
Drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers as the eighth overall pick in 1975, Bridgeman was quickly traded to the Milwaukee Bucks as part of the deal that brought Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to Los Angeles. He went on to play 711 games for the Bucks, a franchise record surpassed only by Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton. His number 2 jersey was retired by the Bucks in 1988, solidifying his legacy with the team.
Beyond basketball, Bridgeman made significant contributions to the Louisville community. He was part of the ownership group of Valhalla Golf Club and served on the boards of prominent organizations like Churchill Downs racetrack, the University of Louisville, and Fifth Third Bank. He and his wife, Doris, were also known for hosting a Kentucky Derby party that served as a fundraising event.
Junior Bridgeman is survived by his wife, Doris, and their children, Eden, Justin, and Ryan.
