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The basketball world has lost one of its own—Junior Bridgeman has passed away at the age of 71. On March 11, 2025, the Milwaukee Bucks shared a statement on Instagram, saying, “The Milwaukee Bucks are shocked and saddened by the tragic passing of Bucks legend and owner Junior Bridgeman. Junior’s retired No. 2 jersey hangs in Fiserv Forum, serving as a constant remembrance of his outstanding play on the court and his impact on the Bucks’ success. His hard work and perseverance led him to become one of the nation’s top business leaders and, last September, Junior’s professional life came full circle when he returned to the Bucks family as an owner. His memory will always be an inspiration to the Bucks organization.”
The team added, “We are heartbroken by Junior’s passing and we send our deepest condolences to his wife, Doris, his children, Eden, Justin, and Ryan, his entire family and all those close to him.”
Learn more about Junior’s cause of death below, as Hollywood Life has gathered details.
What Happened to Junior Bridgeman?
According to multiple reports, the former Milwaukee Bucks player suffered a medical emergency at a hotel in Louisville during a fundraising event on March 11, 2025.
He was best known for his time in the NBA, but he also made a significant impact as a businessman. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver honored him in a statement, saying, per ESPN, “Junior was the ultimate entrepreneur who built on his impactful 12-year NBA playing career by becoming a highly respected and successful business leader. He served as a mentor to generations of NBA players and athletes across sports who were eager to learn from him about what it takes to thrive in the business world. Junior was a dedicated member of the NBA family for 50 years — most recently as a minority owner of the Milwaukee Bucks, an investor in NBA Africa and as a player who set the standard for representing the league and our game with class and dignity.”
Junior Bridgeman’s Cause of Death
According to The New York Post, he reportedly suffered a heart attack and was seen clutching his chest before collapsing.
Was Junior Bridgeman Married?
Yes, Junior was married to Doris Griffith.
Did Junior Bridgeman Have Kids?
He and Doris had three children together—Eden, Justin, and Ryan.
