
via Imago
Dec 15, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson (3) during warmups against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

via Imago
Dec 15, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson (3) during warmups against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
Russell Wilson joined together with NBA and NFL fans to mourn the demise of the former Milwaukee Bucks star! As Bridgeman, 71, succumbed to a fatal medical emergency on March 11, 2025, his impact on sports and business cannot be forgotten. Amidst this,Steelers QB Wilson stepped up to share a heartbroken message on his Twitter handle. Cherishing the memory of Junior Bridgeman, he revealed that they spoke just 10 days ago.
Sharing NY’s post, he penned, “So sad. Literally was on the phone with Junior 10 days ago. Devastating. Life comes and goes when we least expect it. Keep praying and hold your loved ones. Thanks, Junior, for all you meant to me and so many others. You are the example we all aspire to be.” Wilson was shocked at the tragic demise of one of Milwaukee’s greatest legends.
Bridgeman’s death was untimely, as it occurred during a live interview with WLKY sports director Kent Taylor at the Galt House Hotel in Louisville. According to those who witnessed it, he had grabbed his chest. As everyone suspected it to be a heart attack, he was rushed to the hospital. But, unfortunately, he did not survive the attack.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
So sad. Literally was on the phone with Junior 10 days ago. Devastating. Life comes and goes when we least expect it. Keep praying and hold your loved ones. Thanks Junior for all you meant to me and so many others. You are the example we all aspire to be. https://t.co/cDXIoadSoa
— Russell Wilson (@DangeRussWilson) March 12, 2025
Bridgeman was attending the 45th annual Leadership Luncheon on Scouting before he collapsed suddenly. The Al J. Schneider Company, which owns the Galt House Hotel, remarked, “Junior Bridgeman was an integral part of our community. From his athletic impact to his philanthropic efforts, he will be deeply missed.”
Indeed, all of us share Wilson’s admiration for Bridgeman. Wilson had a brief stint with Milwaukee Brewers’ minor league system circa 2010-2011. He transitioned phenomenally from NBA sixth man to self-made billionaire. Fans deeply regard his 12-year NBA career, and as he hanged up his sneakers, his business ventures are equally awestrucking.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The eternal legacy of Junior Bridgeman
Excelling in the domains of both basketball and business, Bridgeman was a force to be reckoned with. Born on September 17, 1953, in East Chicago, Indiana, he led the East Washington High School to a powerful state championship in 1971. His records at the University of Louisville were also phenomenal, leading to him being drafted eighth overall in 1975 by the Los Angeles Lakers. But, later he was traded to Milwaukee Bucks, and his records with the Bucks cannot be overlooked. Becoming the top sixth man, he played 711 games. And, his phenomenal trajectory rendered him as the president of the National Basketball Players Association (1985-1988).

via Imago
December 8, 2024, Hookstown, Pennsylvania, USA: Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback RUSSELL WILSON 3 walks off the field after warming up before the NFL, American Football Herren, USA football game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Cleveland Browns in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Hookstown USA – ZUMAg257 20241208_zsp_g257_062 Copyright: xBrentxGudenschwagerx
What’s your perspective on:
Junior Bridgeman's legacy: How do you think he influenced both sports and business worlds?
Have an interesting take?
After basketball, he ventured into business. Working for Wendy’s, he developed a solid business acumen. As he retired, he went on to build one of the largest fast-food franchise empires. The list is spectacular; he owned over 250 Wendy’s, 125 Chili’s, and 45 Fannie May Chocolate stores, as he employed more than 11,000 people. Later, in 2017, he went on to acquire Heartland Coca-Cola Bottling Company. Moreover, in 2020, he went on to purchase Ebony and Jet magazines for $14 million.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Forbes recognised him for being one of the wealthiest former athletes, as his net worth skyrocketed to $1.4 billion. In 2024, Bridgeman also purchased a 10% stake in the Bucks, becoming a solid part of the franchise. On March 11, 2025, he suffered a fatal heart attack. tributes have been pouring in from people across the world as his legacy continues to live on.
Have something to say?
Let the world know your perspective.
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Debate
Junior Bridgeman's legacy: How do you think he influenced both sports and business worlds?