Magic Johnson mourns sudden demise of Junior Bridgeman in a heartfelt post: “Thank you, Junior, for being an inspiration”

Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnsonhas recently shared that he was devastated following the news of Junior Bridgeman’s sudden demise. Taking to X, Johnson gave a heartfelt tribute to the former Milwaukee Bucks legend in a lengthy post. In the post, Johnson hailed Bridgeman’s legendary NBA career and his business venture while extending condolences to his mourning family.

Magic Johnson made his feelings known about the NBA world’s heartbreaking loss as the basketball community mourns the recent passing of Junior Bridgeman. “I’m saddened to hear of the passing of my friend Junior Bridgeman. I had the privilege of playing against him, and I’ll never forget how he had one of the sweetest jump shots in the NBA,” Johnson shared.
Johnson further reflected on Bridgeman, revealing that he was a kind soul, “But it was his character, his kindness, and his gentle soul that truly left a lasting impression on me. He was one of the nicest guys you would ever want to meet.”
The Hall of Famer also hailed Bridgeman’s business acumen as he went on to make a stunning billion-dollar fortune to his name. Forbes estimated his net worth to be around $1.4 billion.

“What people don’t realize is Junior didn’t make a fortune as a player, but he turned what he earned into something extraordinary, becoming a billionaire African American businessman in this country. His business portfolio included owning 450 Wendy’s and Chili’s franchises in 20 states, Coca-Cola bottling operations in the US and Canada, Ebony and Jet magazines, Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, and he was a minority owner of the Milwaukee Bucks,” Johnson continued.
The Lakers veteran also shared details of Bridgeman’s social activism. “Junior also served on the boards of PGA of America, Churchill Downs Inc, Fifth Third Bank, Jackson Hewitt, Governors Scholar Program, Crusade for Children Foundation, University of Louisville’s Board of Trustees, Louisville Arena Authority, and more. He is the blueprint to so many current and former athletes across sports that success doesn’t end when you're done playing.”
He went on to add, “Beyond business, Junior and his wife Doris made a lasting impact by opening doors for African Americans at the Kentucky Derby. Through their annual pre-Derby party and fundraising efforts, they gave access to so many, including myself, to experience this iconic event - something that had historically been out of reach for many in our community.”
Further, Johnson thanked the former bucks star for being such an inspiration in his life and career. “Thank you, Junior, for being an inspiration on how to be a man, a husband, a father, and a businessman,” he wrote.
“You spent so much of your post-playing career mentoring and educating athletes and I always reference your journey when I speak to young athletes about transitioning from the court or field to the boardroom. Your legacy will transcend beyond your financial success to the doors you opened for so many and inspiring generations to come. Rest in peace, my friend. Cookie and I will be praying for his wife Doris, kids Eden, Justin, and Ryan, and the entire Bridgeman family,” Johnson concluded, extending condolences to the NBA legend’s family.
Also Read: How did Junior Bridgeman die? Details on the cause of death, age, family of Milwaukee Bucks legend
Bridgeman’s demise will create a void in the NBA community as well as in the business world, as the former NBA star made a name for himself in both his career in the league and as a businessman.