The NBA sadly lost one of the legends after it was announced that Milwaukee Bucks icon “Junior” Bridgeman has passed away. He was 71 years old.

His sudden pass came during a Tuesday speech at the 45th Annual Leadership Luncheon at Scouting in Louisville, Kentucky.

During his medical emergency he was seen holding his chest. New York Post. Bridgeman is believed to have had a heart attack. (Related: Steph Curry from Warriors heads… Are you back in college?)

“A tough day, a really tough day” I said Milwaukee head coach Doc Rivers after hearing about Bridgeman’s death.

Bridgeman had a career stat line of 2.4 assists with the Bucks, with 13.6 points per game, 3.5 rebounds per game and 2.4 assists per game.

NBA legend isn’t known only for his on-court success, but he was eventually recognized for his business venture from the court where he saw him become a billionaire and the Milwaukee Bucks become the minority owner.

Shaq looks back at the passing of his friend, @bucks Legend and Owner Junior Bridgeman ❤️ pic.twitter.com/yidzqhqr4r

– TNT’s NBA (@nbaontnt) March 11, 2025

The statement was issued by the Bucks on Tuesday.

“The Milwaukee Bucks are shocked and saddened by the tragic passage of the Bucks legend and owner Junior Bridgeman,” read some of the statement.

“The junior’s retired second jersey appears on the Fiserv Forum and serves as a constant memory of his outstanding play on the court and the impact on the Bucks’ success.

“His hard work and perseverance led him to one of the nation’s top business leaders, and last September, junior’s professional life became a complete circle when he returned to the Bucks family as owner. His memory is always an inspiration for the Bucks organization.

“We are heartbroken with Junior’s death and express deep sadness to his wife Doris, his children, Eden, Justin, Ryan, the whole family, and everyone close to him.”