For the rest of the NBA season, the Milwaukee Bucks will wear a special patch on their jerseys in honor of Junior Bridgeman, a former Bucks standout and minority ownerwho passed away at the age of 71.
The tribute was announced before Milwaukee’s game against the Los Angeles Lakers, where the team held a moment of silence. A video highlighting Bridgeman’s contributions-both on and off the court-played during a first-quarter timeout, giving fans a chance to reflect on his legacy.
Bridgeman’s impact on the Bucks is undeniable. He played 711 games in a Milwaukee uniform, the third-most in franchise history, and had his No. 2 jersey retired in 1988. But his influence stretched far beyond basketball. After retiring, he built an empire in the restaurant and beverage industry, turning modest NBA earnings into a business fortune estimated at $1.4 billion.
More than a patch: A legacy that lives on
Bridgeman wasn’t just a former player-he was a symbol of perseverance, intelligence, and leadership. His journey from being a key part of the Kareem Abdul-Jabbar trade to becoming a successful entrepreneur is one of the most unique in NBA history.
Doc Rivers, the Bucks’ head coach, emphasized just how rare Bridgeman’s story was, pointing out that he built his wealth without the massive salaries of today’s NBA superstars. “The norm of the league is Junior Bridgeman,” Rivers said, highlighting how Bridgeman’s path showed what was possible beyond the game.
His connection to the Bucks remained strong even after his playing days. In 2020, he bought a 10% stake in the team, bringing his career full circle. Now, with the commemorative patch, his name will be back on Bucks jerseys-just as it was decades ago, but this time in a different way.
This tribute isn’t just about remembering a great player or a savvy businessman. It’s about celebrating a man who embodied excellence in every stage of his life. Every time a Bucks player steps onto the court with that patch, they’ll be carrying a piece of his legacy with them.
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