Ulysses (Junior) Bridgeman, ’75, owner of Heartland Coca-Cola Bottling Co. and Bridgeman Sports and Media, has died at age 71. A basketball great and entrepreneur, Bridgeman’s roots in Louisville began as a star player under Hall of Fame Coach Denny Crum. Ulysses “Junior” Bridgeman Credit: UofL Athletics
He helped take the Cardinals to the NCAA Division I Basketball Tournament in 1974 and the Final Four in 1975 and was an All-American in 1974-75. His success continued in the NBA where he played for 12 seasons with the Milwaukee Bucks and the Los Angeles Clippers.
While his play on the court was exceptional, he truly excelled as a business leader. A longtime franchisee for Wendy’s and Chili’s restaurants, at one time he operated more than 450 locations in 20 states. He became a bottler for The Coca-Cola Co. and bought Ebony and Jet magazines.
Last year, Bridgeman bought a 10-percent stake in the Milwaukee Bucks. He was one of a group of four members who own Valhalla Golf Club. This past spring, Forbes magazine recognized and celebrated Bridgeman’s achievement as a former athlete who built a highly successful business enterprise that eclipsed his tremendous success on the court.
“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 many throughout his life and always had time for those who asked for his counsel or support,” said UofL President Kim Schatzel.
Bridgeman served on numerous boards throughout his lifetime, including the UofL Board of Trustees and UofL Foundation.
