Brinker International, Inc., (NYSE: EAT) said Thursday it reached a franchising and development agreement with ERJ Dining that will bring 18 new Chili's Grill & Bar restaurants to Kentucky.

As part of the agreement, the franchisee also acquired four existing Kentucky Chili's locations in the Louisville and Lexington.

Based in Louisville, ERJ Dining is a new venture that includes former pro basketball player Ulysses "Junior" Bridgeman, one of the country's largest Wendy's franchisees.

"Chili's is one of the world's most popular casual dining restaurant brands, and there is tremendous growth potential for the concept in Kentucky," said Bridgeman, who played 12 seasons in the NBA prior to launching his Wendy's franchise in 1989.

Greg