Inducted 1999

Jim Fitzgerald made his fortune in cable television and other industries, but he will always be best known in Wisconsin as the principal owner of the Milwaukee Bucks during the Don Nelson era. The Janesville native was known as an affable owner who had the sense to leave the basketball to the basketball people, but also provided strong leadership for the overall operation from the top.
"Fitz" and Nelson had a handshake agreement for their years together. It worked well, as the Bucks made the playoffs year after year. Fitzgerald also was one of the founders of Sportsvue cable network. After selling the Bucks, Fitgerald bought the Golden State Warriors in the Bay area, where he again teamed with Nelson.