Louisville lost a stalwart for the community on Tuesday when Ulysses “Junior” Bridgeman suffered what appeared to be a heart attack while at the Galt House.
Bridgeman came to Louisville first as a college basketball player under coach Denny Crum and then returned to Louisville as he retired from the NBA after playing with the Milwaukee Bucks and the L.A. Clippers. Bridgeman’s achievements were many but his work for the community garnered much praise and respect in the community. His Trifecta Gala supported cancer research, youth education, and food security. Bridgeman was 71.
Upon hearing the news, the community shared an outpouring of memories and support for Bridgeman’s family.
One West released a statement saying:
“Our board of directors and staff are heartbroken by the passing of Junior Bridgeman,” said Evon Smith, President & CEO of OneWest in a release. “Junior was a towering figure and a steadfast champion of our organization’s mission to uplift the West End and our entire city. He was incredibly generous—with his time, sharp business acumen, and financial support. When Junior believed in a cause, he gave it his all, inspiring others to follow his lead. His legacy of leadership and generosity will endure. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Doris, and their children, Justin, Ryan, and Eden.”
Louisville Mayor Greenberg said, “Today, we lost a kind, generous and groundbreaking legend. He was an All-American at UofL, an NBA All-Star, and a self-made billionaire. Yet, I will most remember Junior Bridgeman for his quiet, impactful assistance to others in need, his love for Doris and his entire family, and his never-ending support for our community. Junior made us all better people and Louisville a better city. Rachel & I send our love and prayers to the Bridgeman family. May Junior’s memory be a blessing.”
Current UofL president Kim Schatzel, PhD shared memories of his time at the college in an address to the school’s community.
“I know we all are experiencing great sadness today following the tragic loss of one of the University of Louisville’s most accomplished alumni, Ulysses “Junior” Bridgeman,” she said in the statement. “Mr. Bridgeman (’75) attended UofL from 1972-1975 and developed into a legendary basketball player under Coach Denny Crum. He went on to play for 12 seasons in the NBA with the Milwaukee Bucks and the Los Angeles Clippers.
“While his play on the court was exceptional, it was as a leader in the business community that Junior truly excelled. He was a longtime franchisee for Wendy’s and Chili’s restaurants, at one time operating more than 450 locations in 20 states. He became a bottler for The Coca-Cola Co. and bought Ebony and Jet magazines.”
She added, “I have gotten to know Junior during my two years here at UofL. What stood out to me was his incredible grace, humility and his deep love for his family, his adopted Louisville home and his alma mater. He mentored and touched many throughout his life and always had time for those who asked for his counsel or support.
“I know you all join Trevor and I as we offer our deepest sympathies to Junior’s family, wife Doris, sons Ryan and Justin, and daughter Eden. He is a Louisville legend who will be deeply missed by our entire community.”
On social media, posts from friends, politicians, and people across the nation shared condolences and memories of Bridgeman, praising his work and his skills as a player.
