The basketball world is mourning the loss of Mitchell Wiggins, a former NBA player known for his time with the Chicago Bulls, Houston Rockets, and Philadelphia 76ers. Wiggins passed away at the age of 64, as confirmed by his daughter, Angey Wiggins, on her Instagram account.
NBA Career and Highlights
Wiggins was originally drafted by the Indiana Pacers in 1983 with the 23rd pick but was subsequently traded to the Chicago Bulls in exchange for Sidney Lowe. Throughout his career, he built a reputation as a versatile and talented player. One of his standout seasons came in the 1989-90 NBA season, where 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).
Wiggins was also part of the Houston Rockets team that made it to the 1986 NBA Finals against the Boston Celtics. The Rockets, however, fell short, losing the series in six games. Despite the loss, Wiggins' performance on such a grand stage solidified his place in NBA history.
Challenges and Resilience
Wiggins' career was not without its challenges. In 1987, he and his teammate Lewis Lloyd were suspended for two years after failing a drug test. While Wiggins had the option to volunteer for treatment and potentially negate the two-year ban, he chose not to. Nevertheless, his return to the NBA marked his best season, demonstrating his resilience and dedication to the game. When he rejoined the league, it became clear that his passion for basketball was undiminished.
Legacy and Personal Life
Wiggins played professional basketball for a remarkable 20 seasons in total, showcasing his endurance and continuous contribution to the sport. His legacy extends beyond his own career, as his son, Andrew Wiggins, currently plays as a forward for the Golden State Warriors. In 2023, Andrew Wiggins missed 25 games due to personal matters, a difficult period which added another layer of complexity to the Wiggins family story.
The news of Mitchell Wiggins’ passing was met with an outpouring of tributes and condolences from the basketball community, including the National Basketball Retired Players Association. The support and respect shown reflect the impact Wiggins had on those who knew him and those who followed his career.
A Celebrated Career
As the basketball world reflects on the life and career of Mitchell Wiggins, it’s important to remember not just his statistics and on-court achievements, but also his resilience and love for the game. His daughter’s confirmation of his passing on social media offered a personal touch to the shared grief and remembrance within the community.
"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," a sentiment that rings true as athletes and fans alike pay homage to a player who left an indelible mark on the sport.