Two weeks ago, we learned that Junior Bridgeman had bought 10% of the Bucks. The former sixth man from Milwaukee, more than 40 years ago, made his fortune after his career, owning several Wendy's and Chili's restaurants, producing bottles for Coca-Cola and buying Ebony and Jet magazines.
With the 15% rebate, offered to former players of the franchise, and driven by his fortune estimated at $600 million, he therefore invested, at age 70, in the Bucks.
“The opportunity to get involved with the team again, in a different way and benefit from it was a bit of a dream,” he declared in the franchise's training room. “I think a lot of players have the same dream and want to do this. There are a lot of smart people in basketball but I would like, at one point or another, to help guys in their lives and their businesses, like I was helped when I was a player. »
Example of success but also guide to avoiding mistakes
Junior Bridgeman notably thanked Jim Fitzgerald, the former owner of the Bucks, for sharing his knowledge about the business world. He could also have bought the Milwaukee franchise before it was sold to Wes Edens and Marc Lasry.
“I felt it wasn’t the right time. Now it is”he specifies. “Would I like to be twenty years younger?” Yes, and be more involved. Sometimes you have to go with the flow of life. »
An example of financial success after his NBA career, at a time when the sums earned were far – even taking into account inflation – from those of current players, Junior Bridgeman will be able to set an example for Giannis Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard and company.
“I will also talk about the pitfalls. I think these elements are more important than the successes”he also announces. “We have to worry about this, be attentive to that. And if you can help them in any way, if they have these kinds of questions in the future, I think that will be just as helpful as anything you can say about basketball. »
