Junior Bridgeman: NBA Legend Turns Milwaukee Bucks Stakeholder

In a remarkable transition from an illustrious basketball career to entrepreneurial success, Junior Bridgeman, the former Milwaukee Bucks player, has now acquired a substantial stake in the NBA team. The news was confirmed during a press conference by the Bucks, featuring co-owner Jimmy Haslam, head coach Doc Rivers, general manager Jon Horst, and several current team players.

Bridgeman: A Basketball Legend

Bridgeman’s time with the Bucks, spanning from 1975 to 1984 and again from 1986 to 1987, is richly adorned with records and accolades. His 711 games with the team place him third in the franchise’s history, surpassed only by current players Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton. Bridgeman’s contributions in field goals (4,142), points (9,892), and minutes played (18,054) rank him seventh, ninth, and tenth respectively in the team’s history.

In recognition of his contributions, the Bucks retired his No. 2 jersey in 1988, a testament to his significant impact on the team. Today, the jersey is proudly displayed at the Fiserv Forum, a monument to Bridgeman’s storied career.

Bridgeman’s Business Endeavors

Following his retirement from professional basketball, Bridgeman embarked on a successful entrepreneurial journey. He became the owner and CEO of Bridgeman Foods, operating over 450 Wendy’s and Chili’s outlets across 20 states until 2016. Additionally, he served as an independent bottler for Coca-Cola. Bridgeman’s family also owns the popular Ebony and Jet magazines.

Bridgeman Joins Bucks Ownership Group

As the latest addition to the Bucks’ ownership group, Bridgeman’s stake is estimated to be around 10%. “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,” Bridgeman said during the announcement.

His addition to the ownership group, which includes Haslam, Wesley Edens, Jamie Dinan, and Mike Fascitelli, marks a significant milestone in his career, reaffirming his deep-rooted connection with the Milwaukee Bucks.

Junior Bridgeman, a former NBA player, took an unusual path to success after his basketball career ended. Instead of reclining into a comfortable retirement, he purchased a fast-food franchise and went on to build a prosperous business empire. His incredible journey from the court to the boardroom is a testament to the power of hard work, business acumen, and financial savvy.

The Start of a New Chapter

In 1988, an unexpected encounter took place in a Wendy’s in South Milwaukee. A tall man handed over a tray of food to a woman, who recognized him as a former NBA player. The incident sparked a conversation on a local radio show about retired NBA players working in fast-food restaurants. The man in question was none other than Junior Bridgeman, a former Milwaukee Bucks player. Contrary to the woman’s assumption, Bridgeman was not merely an employee at the Wendy’s, but the owner of the franchise and others in the city.

Making a Mark Off the Court

Bridgeman, who enjoyed a successful basketball career from 1975 to 1984, was unfazed by this public misunderstanding. He understood that the salaries of players at his time were not as high as they are now. Bridgeman, a role player rather than a star during his NBA career, had made approximately $2.95 million over his 12 seasons. Post-retirement, he expanded his fast-food business, which at its peak comprised over 450 outlets across the country. His success in business skyrocketed his net worth to nearly $600 million, placing him among the wealthiest NBA players alongside Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and LeBron James.

The Importance of Financial Literacy

Bridgeman’s success stands in stark contrast to the financial struggles often faced by retired athletes. Many succumb to the pressures of financial mismanagement, ill-advised investments, and the high costs of post-career medical care. Recognizing this, Bridgeman has been actively sharing his financial wisdom with rookies and veterans in the NBA since the early 1990s, emphasizing the importance of financial responsibility.

The Power of Hard Work and Understanding

Bridgeman’s path to business success began with a visit to a McDonald’s restaurant in 1978. Inspired by the idea of owning a business rather than working for others, he decided to venture into the fast-food industry. His initial attempts were not without failures, but Bridgeman learned from his mistakes, understanding the importance of knowing the ins and outs of a business before investing significantly in it.

Building a Fast-food Empire

Upon retiring from the NBA in 1987, Bridgeman rejected an offer to become an assistant general manager for the Bucks, opting instead to pursue his business interests. He eventually established a successful chain of Wendy’s franchises across Milwaukee, Madison, Louisville, Nashville, and Florida. His hands-on approach and keen understanding of the business were vital to his success.

Contributing to the NBA Community

Even after retiring from basketball, Bridgeman’s contributions to the NBA community did not cease. He has been an active advocate for financial literacy among players, sharing his experiences and lessons learned through various NBA programs. His efforts have helped shape the financial futures of many players, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge to manage their wealth responsibly and avoid falling into financial ruin.

Generational Wealth and Future Aspirations

Today, Bridgeman’s focus is on building generational wealth. He believes that current NBA contracts provide players with an opportunity to create wealth that spans generations. As he continues to mentor players and share his financial wisdom, Bridgeman hopes to help more athletes avoid the common pitfalls associated with sudden wealth, guiding them towards financial prosperity and stability.

Conclusion

Bridgeman’s journey from basketball to business is an inspiring tale of resilience, ambition, and wisdom. From the court to the boardroom, his story serves as a reminder that success is achievable even after the game ends. His commitment to financial literacy continues to impact the lives of many athletes, ensuring they are equipped to manage their wealth and secure their futures.