5 things you should know about Junior Bridgeman – a former NBA player who changed a billionaire businessman – who died at the age of 71

On March 11, 2025, during a party in the center of Louisville in Ky. Billiarder businessman and philanthropist Ulysses L. “Junior” Bridgemen suffered emergency medical accidents; Later he died. He was 71 years old. While Junior Bridgeman might be a well -known University of Louisville community and fans of the Milwaukee Bucks NBA series, where he played for 10 seasons, others is probably not so aware of many facets of his life and profession that influenced various communities in Louisville and Milwaukee, but in addition around the world.

Here are five things you should know about Junior Bridgeman.

1. At the time of his death, the net value of the Bridgeman was Apparently $ 1.4 billion.

In September 2024, Bridgeman bought 10% minority in Milwaukee Bucks, a franchise during which he played in 1975–1984. His Jersey number – no. 2 – he has been retired through the franchise since 1988. This participation in the franchise pushed its net value to the status of a billionaire.

2. After NBA days, Bridgeman has develop into Very, very successful fast food franchisee.

At some point, Bridgeman reportedly had almost 500 locations of (*71*), Chili’s and Pizza Hut throughout the country.

3. Owner of Legacy Publications, “Ebony” and “Jet.”

In 2020, Bridgeman bought the magazines “Ebony” and “Jet” from the previous owner, Clear View Group. He was the owner of each publications at the time of death.

4. One of the owners of the Louisville Valhalla golf clubThe famous Golf Club designed by Jacek Nicklaus.

In 2022, Junior Bridgeman and other outstanding businessmen from Louisville bought the legendary Golf Club from PGA of America. Valhalla, designed by the iconic Golfist Jacek Nicklaus, hosted PGA Championship – one of the 4 major Golf competitions – times and served as a Ryder Cup website.

5. At some point, Bridgeman was recognized as one of the richest retired athletes in the world.

In 2016, Forbes recognized Bridgemen as the fourth richest retired Athlete after Michael Jordan, David Beckham and Arnold Palmer, when he reportedly earned almost $ 32 million a 12 months.