Mitchell Wiggins, a former NBA player known for his tenure with the Chicago Bulls, Houston Rockets, and Philadelphia 76ers, has passed away at the age of 64. His daughter, Angey Wiggins, confirmed the news on her Instagram account, leaving the basketball community to mourn the loss of an athlete remembered for both his talent and his turbulent career.
Early Career and Draft
Mitchell Wiggins began his professional journey when he was drafted by the Indiana Pacers in 1983 as the 23rd overall pick. However, he was promptly traded to the Chicago Bulls in exchange for Sidney Lowe. This early move was just the beginning of a career marked by both achievements and setbacks.
Major NBA Contributions
During the 1989-90 NBA season, Wiggins had a standout performance, averaging 15.0 points per game (PPG) and 4.3 rebounds per game (RPG) on an impressive 49% shooting. He clocked in at 28.1 minutes per game (MPG), showcasing his skills and proving to be a valuable player on the court.
One of the highlights of Wiggins' career was his stint with the Houston Rockets, particularly during the 1986 NBA Finals against the Boston Celtics. Unfortunately, the Rockets lost to the Celtics in six games, but Wiggins' contribution did not go unnoticed.
Challenges and Resilience
Wiggins' career was not without its challenges. In the year following the NBA Finals, he and his teammate Lewis Lloyd faced a significant setback when they were suspended for two years after failing a drug test. Wiggins opted not to volunteer for treatment, which would have mitigated the length of his suspension, and faced the full term of the ban.
Despite this, he managed to make a remarkable comeback, having one of his best NBA seasons upon his return. His resilience and determination to succeed after such a major setback became a defining aspect of his career.
Legacy and Family
Wiggins played professional basketball for an impressive 20 seasons in total. His career spanned numerous teams and leagues, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. In a unique twist of fate, his legacy continues through his son, Andrew Wiggins, who currently plays as a forward for the Golden State Warriors. Andrew Wiggins missed 25 games in 2023 due to personal matters, underscoring the pressures and demands faced by professional athletes.
Tributes and Reflections
The basketball community has come together to honor Mitchell Wiggins' memory. The National Basketball Retired Players Association, among others, has acknowledged his death with numerous tributes and condolences. The sentiment is echoed by Angey Wiggins' confirmation of his passing on her Instagram, highlighting the personal loss felt by those closest to him.
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. His journey serves as a reminder of the triumphs and tribulations faced by professional athletes, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations both on and off the court.