Former NBA player Junior Bridgeman is reportedly purchasing a 10% stake in the Milwaukee Bucks, a team where he spent the majority of his basketball career. The deal values the Bucks at approximately $4 billion, but Bridgeman is receiving a “preferred limited partner discount,” meaning he will pay around $340 million for his share【18†source】【19†source】.
Bridgeman played 12 seasons in the NBA, with 10 of those for the Bucks, and became a successful businessman after retiring. He built a vast business empire, notably owning hundreds of fast-food franchises and acquiring media assets like *Ebony* and *Jet* magazines. His wealth is estimated at nearly $600 million【18†source】. The investment marks Bridgeman’s return to the franchise in a new role, as a minority owner, enhancing his legacy with the team where his jersey was retired in 1988【19†source】.Former NBA player Junior Bridgeman, who spent the majority of his 12-season career with the Milwaukee Bucks, is set to return to the organization—not as a player, but as a minority owner. Bridgeman is reportedly purchasing a 10% stake in the Bucks, with the deal valuing the franchise at around $4 billion. Due to a “preferred limited partner discount,” Bridgeman will acquire his share for an adjusted valuation of $3.4 billion, amounting to an approximate payment of $340 million【18†source】【19†source】.
Bridgeman, now 71, was an eighth-overall pick in the 1975 NBA Draft and played ten seasons with the Bucks, including his final NBA season in 1986-87. Known for his scoring ability and work ethic, Bridgeman’s contributions to the team are still remembered, and his No. 2 jersey was retired by the Bucks in 1988. He remains one of the franchise’s all-time greats, with his 711 career games for the Bucks once holding the record until surpassed by Giannis Antetokounmpo【19†source】.
What makes Bridgeman’s story even more compelling is his post-NBA success. Unlike many athletes who struggle after retirement, Bridgeman transitioned into a massively successful business career. He started by investing in fast-food franchises and eventually owned over 160 Wendy’s and 120 Chili’s restaurants. His business acumen and entrepreneurial spirit have led him to a net worth of nearly $600 million【18†source】. Bridgeman also expanded into media ownership, acquiring *Ebony* and *Jet* magazines, further solidifying his status as a business mogul【19†source】.
This investment in the Bucks marks a significant moment in Bridgeman’s journey, intertwining his successful basketball and business careers. It’s also a reflection of the increasing value of NBA franchises, which continue to soar in worth. His return to the team as a minority owner is expected to enhance his legacy with the Bucks, demonstrating not only his enduring connection to Milwaukee but also his ability to thrive across different arenas【19†source】【18†source】.