Mitchell Wiggins, a former NBA player known for his tenacity and skill, has passed away at the age of 64. His daughter, Angey, confirmed his passing on her Instagram account, marking the end of a life that knew both the highs and lows of professional basketball.
NBA Career Beginnings
Wiggins' journey in the NBA began when he was drafted by the Indiana Pacers in 1983 with the 23rd pick. However, his time with the Pacers was fleeting as he was traded immediately to the Chicago Bulls in exchange for Sidney Lowe. This transaction marked the starting point of his career in the NBA, a league that would see him don the jerseys of several teams and leave an indelible mark.
Playing for the Bulls and Rockets
Wiggins played for the Chicago Bulls before moving on to the Houston Rockets, where he participated in the 1986 NBA Finals against the Boston Celtics. Despite a valiant effort, the Rockets fell to the Celtics in six games. Nonetheless, Wiggins' performance on court evidenced his talent and commitment to the game.
Peak and Suspension
The 1989-90 NBA season stood out as Wiggins' best. He averaged 15.0 points per game (PPG) and 4.3 rebounds per game (RPG) on an impressive 49% shooting, while playing 28.1 minutes per game (MPG). Just as he appeared to be reaching his peak, Wiggins' career was temporarily derailed. In the following year, he and teammate Lewis Lloyd were suspended for two years after failing a drug test. Notably, Wiggins chose not to volunteer for treatment, a decision that ultimately enforced the two-year ban.
Resurgence Post-Suspension
Upon return from his suspension, Wiggins reclaimed his form, having what many called his best season in the NBA. His resilience and determination not only earned him accolades but also the respect of his peers and fans alike. His entire professional basketball career spanned an impressive 20 seasons, displaying his enduring love for the game.
A Legacy Passed On
Basketball talent clearly runs in the Wiggins family. Mitchell Wiggins’ son, Andrew Wiggins, currently plays as a forward for the Golden State Warriors and has carved out his own reputation in the NBA. Recently, in 2023, Andrew missed 25 games due to personal matters, demonstrating that the pressures and trials of professional sports persist through generations.
Tributes and Mourning
The news of Mitchell Wiggins' death prompted an outpouring of tributes from the basketball community. The National Basketball Retired Players Association, among others, extended their condolences, underscoring his impact on the game. As the basketball world mourns the loss of Wiggins, it also celebrates a career marked by resilience, talent, and a genuine love for the game.
The narrative of Mitchell Wiggins is one of both triumph and tribulation. From being traded moments after being drafted, to playing in the NBA Finals, facing suspension, and eventually returning stronger, his story embodies the unpredictability and challenges inherent in professional sports. Wiggins may no longer be with us, but his legacy—marked by both personal and professional highs and lows—remains a lasting testament to his contributions to the game of basketball.