The basketball world and the business community mourn the loss of Ulysses “Junior” Bridgeman, a former NBA player, visionary entrepreneur and philanthropist, who died on March 11.
Born in East Chicago, Indiana, on Sept. 17, 1953, Junior Bridgeman leaves behind a legacy that transcends his accomplishments on the hardwood. His journey from a small-town Indiana kid to a thriving NBA player and one of the most respected businessmen in America speaks volumes.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver released a heartfelt statement following Bridgeman’s passing, praising his contributions to the league and his remarkable post-basketball achievements.
“Junior Bridgeman’s impact on the NBA was profound, both as a player and as a role model,” Silver said. “His dedication to the game and his teammates was matched only by his commitment to excellence in everything he pursued.”
Bridgeman’s basketball career began at Washington High School in East Chicago, where he emerged as a standout talent, which earned him a scholarship to the University of Louisville, where he played under legendary coach Denny Crum.
During his collegiate career, Bridgeman helped lead the Cardinals to the 1975 NCAA Final Four, thickening his reputation as a versatile and hardworking player. His success at Louisville caught the attention of NBA scouts and was ultimately selected eighth overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in the 1975 NBA Draft. However, his rights were soon traded to the Milwaukee Bucks, where he spent most of his 12-year professional career.
As a Buck, Bridgeman became known for his consistency, professionalism and team-first mantra. Though he was primarily a sixth man, his contributions were priceless. He averaged 13.6 points, 3.5 rebounds and 2.4 assists per contest over his career.
Bridgeman’s durability was also remarkable; he played in 711 consecutive games.
While Bridgeman’s NBA career was impressive, his post-basketball endeavors truly set him apart. After retiring from the NBA in 1987, he turned his attention to corporate America, where he achieved extraordinary success.
Bridgeman’s entrepreneurial journey began with a single Wendy’s franchise in Milwaukee. Recognizing the potential of the fast-food industry, he expanded his holdings, eventually owning over 160 Wendy’s and 120 Chili’s restaurants.
At one point, his company, Bridgeman Foods Inc., was one of the largest restaurant operators in the country.
The business acumen of Junior Bridgeman extended beyond the food industry. In 2016, he made headlines when he purchased Ebony and Jet magazines, iconic publications, that have long been pillars of Black culture.
His acquisition of these magazines was not just a business move but a commitment to preserving and uplifting Black voices and stories.
Bridgeman’s leadership helped revitalize the publications, ensuring their continued relevance in a rapidly changing media landscape.
His Indiana roots remained a source of pride throughout his life. Bridgeman often credited his upbringing in East Chicago for instilling in him the values of hard work, humility and perseverance. His connection to his hometown was evident in his philanthropic efforts, which included significant contributions to education and community development initiatives in the Hoosier State.
Additionally, Silver highlighted Bridgeman’s entrepreneurial spirit, noting that his business success “inspired countless others to dream big and work hard.”
Junior Bridgeman’s passing is a profound loss, but his legacy on and off of the hardwood will endure.
Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846. Follow him on X @3Noral. For more news, click here.
Senior Sports Writer for the Indianapolis Recorder Noral Parham III.
Noral Parham is the multi-media & senior sports reporter for the Indianapolis Recorder, one of the oldest Black publications in the country. Parham has worked with various leagues to provide a diverse perspective in sports, including the Big Ten, Big East, IHSAA, IndyCar, MLB, NHRA, NFL, NBA, WNBA, WWE and the Olympics. Prior to joining the Recorder, Parham served as the community advocate of the MLK Center in Indianapolis and senior copywriter for an e-commerce and marketing firm in Denver.