Mitchell Wiggins, a former NBA player known for his time with the Chicago Bulls, Houston Rockets, and Philadelphia 76ers, has sadly passed away at the age of 64. The news was confirmed by his daughter, Angey, on her Instagram account.
A Promising Start
Drafted by the Indiana Pacers in 1983 with the 23rd pick, Wiggins was quickly traded to the Chicago Bulls in exchange for Sidney Lowe. This marked the beginning of a notable career in the NBA, with Wiggins becoming a key player for each team he played for.
Peak Performance
Wiggins' professional journey featured several highlights, including his performance during the 1989-90 NBA season. That year, he averaged 15.0 points per game (PPG) and 4.3 rebounds per game (RPG), with an impressive 49% shooting accuracy in an average of 28.1 minutes per game (MPG). Such statistics underscored his talent and contributed significantly to his team's efforts.
Houston Rockets and the NBA Finals
One of the most memorable moments of Wiggins' career was playing with the Houston Rockets in the 1986 NBA Finals against the Boston Celtics. Despite the Rockets' loss to the Celtics in six games, Wiggins' performance in the Finals solidified his reputation as a valuable player. The following year, his career hit a setback when he and his teammate Lewis Lloyd were suspended for two years after failing a drug test. Wiggins chose not to volunteer for treatment, a decision that would have negated the two-year ban.
Resilience and Redemption
Following his suspension, Wiggins made a remarkable comeback. He had his best NBA season upon his return, demonstrating resilience and determination. Over his 20-season professional basketball career, Wiggins left an indelible mark on the sport, navigating the highs and lows with grace and tenacity.
Legacy Continues
Wiggins' legacy extends beyond his own career. His son, Andrew Wiggins, currently plays as a forward for the Golden State Warriors. Andrew missed 25 games in 2023 due to personal matters, but remains a key player for the Warriors, carrying forward the family tradition of excellence in basketball.
A Basketball Community in Mourning
The basketball community, including the National Basketball Retired Players Association, has acknowledged Mitchell Wiggins' passing with tributes and condolences. The loss has been felt deeply by many who admired his career and character.
"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," remarked one tribute, capturing the sentiment of many who knew and respected him.
Mitchell Wiggins' career was a testament to his love for basketball and his unwavering spirit. He will be remembered not only for his on-court achievements but also for the resilience he showed throughout his life, inspiring future generations of players.