Former Milwaukee Bucks player Junior Bridgeman acquires a share in the franchise.

MILWAUKEE -- Junior Bridgeman had a significant tenure with the Milwaukee Bucks, during which he established himself as the franchise leader in games played. His impressive contributions to the team have earned him the honor of having his jersey retired and displayed in the rafters of the Fiserv Forum. In a new chapter of his career, the former basketball player has now acquired an ownership stake in the organization.

The Bucks revealed Bridgeman's acquisition during a press conference attended by co-owner Jimmy Haslam, head coach Doc Rivers, general manager Jon Horst, and several current players from the team. Following the press conference, Bridgeman stated that he holds a 10% ownership interest in the franchise.

Upon the emergence of this opportunity, it seemed only fitting for me to become involved—not merely in spirit but also in a tangible capacity—within the organization as it moves forward, Bridgeman stated. At the age of 71, Bridgeman had a notable tenure with the Bucks, playing from 1975 to 1984 and then again from 1986 to 1987. His total of 711 games played for Milwaukee places him third in the franchise's history, surpassed only by current players Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton.

He is ranked seventh in the history of the Bucks for field goals made, with a total of 4,142, ninth in points scored with 9,892, and tenth in total minutes played, accumulating 18,054. The Bucks honored him by retiring his No. 2 jersey in 1988. Following his basketball career, Bridgeman ventured into the restaurant industry, ultimately becoming the owner and CEO of Bridgeman Foods, which managed over 450 Wendy's and Chili's locations across 20 states until 2016. Additionally, he has served as an independent bottler for Coca-Cola. His family is also the owner of Ebony and Jet magazines. He is now part of a Bucks ownership group that includes Haslam, Wesley Edens, Jamie Dinan, and Mike Fascitelli.