Mitchell Wiggins, former NBA player and father of current Golden State Warriors forward Andrew Wiggins, has died at the age of 64. The sad news was confirmed by his daughter Angey on her Instagram account.
Wiggins, who was drafted by the Indiana Pacers in 1983 with the 23rd overall pick, was immediately traded to the Chicago Bulls in exchange for Sidney Lowe. Over his NBA career, Wiggins would go on to play for the Houston Rockets and Philadelphia 76ers, leaving an indelible mark on each team he joined.
An Up-and-Down Journey
Wiggins' career was marked by both achievements and setbacks. One of his standout seasons came in 1989-90 when he averaged 15.0 points per game (PPG) and 4.3 rebounds per game (RPG), shooting 49% from the field while playing 28.1 minutes per game (MPG). These stellar stats showcased his potential and solidified his place in the NBA.
However, Wiggins faced significant challenges as well. He was a key player for the Houston Rockets during the 1986 NBA Finals, where the team ultimately fell to the Boston Celtics in six games. The following year, Wiggins and his teammate Lewis Lloyd were suspended for two years after failing a drug test. Wiggins opted not to volunteer for treatment, which would have allowed him to avoid the ban.
Resilience and Family Legacy
Despite the suspension, Wiggins made an impressive return to the game. Upon completing his two-year ban, he experienced what many considered his best NBA season. His resilience in the face of adversity was a testament to his love for the game and his innate talent.
Wiggins' professional basketball career spanned two decades, a length of time that underscores both his skill and his perseverance. His legacy continues through his son, Andrew Wiggins, who currently plays for the Golden State Warriors. In 2023, Andrew faced personal challenges of his own, missing 25 games due to personal matters.
Community Mourns the Loss
The basketball community has been quick to pay tribute to Mitchell Wiggins, with the National Basketball Retired Players Association leading the chorus of condolences and tributes. His story is one of talent and resilience, marked by highs and lows, but always driven by a genuine love for basketball.
"As the basketball world mourns the loss of Mitchell Wiggins, it also celebrates a career marked by resilience, talent, and a genuine love for the game," one article noted, capturing the sentiment of many who knew him.
Mitchell Wiggins left an indelible mark on the NBA and on the hearts of those who followed his career. While he will undoubtedly be missed, his impact on the game and the lives of those who knew him will not soon be forgotten.