Ulysses “Junior” Bridgeman, a standout from the 1975 Louisville Final Four team and a 12-season NBA veteran turned billionaire businessman, has passed away at the age of 71. Bridgeman suffered a medical emergency during a fundraiser at the Galt House Hotel in downtown Louisville. The Al J. Schneider Company, which owns the hotel, confirmed his death, although details including the cause remain unclear. Bridgeman, who played nine seasons for the Milwaukee Bucks, was remembered by the team with a heartfelt statement expressing shock and sadness at his loss. The team highlighted his on-court contributions and his subsequent success in the business world, culminating in his return to the Bucks as an owner in 2024. Bridgeman, a former All-MVC player during his time at Louisville, led the Cardinals to the 1975 Final Four before a successful NBA career with the Bucks and the Los Angeles Clippers. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver also paid tribute to Bridgeman, praising his transition from player to influential business figure and his lasting impact on the league.
Endy Bridgeman’s fast-food franchises flourished over the years. As reported by the Courier-Journal, Bridgeman evolved into one of the country’s leading restaurant franchise operators and diversified his portfolio by acquiring a Coca-Cola bottling operation.
In 2020, Bridgeman and his daughter Eden Bridgeman Sklenar acquired Jet and Ebony magazines for $14 million, rescuing them from bankruptcy and transforming them into successful digital ventures. Sklenar now serves as the CEO of these magazines.
Forbes estimated Bridgeman’s net worth at $1.4 billion in February. He is survived by his wife, Doris, and their three children: Eden, Justin, and Ryan.
