Mitchell Wiggins, a former NBA player renowned for his time with the Chicago Bulls, Houston Rockets, and Philadelphia 76ers, has passed away at the age of 64. His daughter, Angey, confirmed his passing on her Instagram account, paying homage to a father whose legacy in basketball spans decades.
Early Career and Draft
Wiggins’ professional journey began in 1983 when the Indiana Pacers selected him with the 23rd pick in the NBA Draft. However, his time with the Pacers was short-lived; he was immediately traded to the Chicago Bulls in exchange for Sidney Lowe. This initial transaction was the precursor to a career marked by notable highs and unexpected setbacks.
NBA Achievements
One of Wiggins’ standout seasons came in the 1989-90 NBA season, where he posted impressive statistics. Averaging 15.0 points per game (PPG) and 4.3 rebounds per game (RPG) on 49% shooting while playing 28.1 minutes per game (MPG), he solidified his position as a significant contributor on the court. His peak performance helped to define his tenure in the NBA.
Notably, Wiggins was a member of the Houston Rockets team that competed in the 1986 NBA Finals against the Boston Celtics. Despite a spirited campaign, the Rockets fell to the Celtics in six games. This playoff run remains a vivid memory for fans and a testament to Wiggins' talents and the competitive spirit of his team.
Setbacks and Resilience
Wiggins’ career, however, was not without its challenges. In the following year after the NBA Finals appearance, he and his teammate Lewis Lloyd were suspended for two years after failing a drug test. Wiggins made the controversial decision not to volunteer for treatment, which would have negated the suspension. Despite this setback, Wiggins demonstrated extraordinary resilience by returning to the NBA and having his best season post-suspension.
Later Career and Legacy
Over the span of 20 professional seasons, Mitchell Wiggins left an indelible mark on the sport. His perseverance through personal and professional trials showcased his dedication to the game he loved.
The legacy of Mitchell Wiggins continues through his son, Andrew Wiggins, who currently plays as a forward for the Golden State Warriors. In a testament to the family's enduring connection to basketball, Andrew Wiggins missed 25 games in 2023 due to personal matters, underscoring the intertwined nature of their lives and careers.
The basketball community has responded to the news of Mitchell Wiggins' passing with an outpouring of tributes and condolences. Representatives of the National Basketball Retired Players Association joined in acknowledging his contributions to the sport and expressing their sympathy to his family.
Reflecting on his career, it is clear that while Mitchell Wiggins faced numerous challenges, his journey is celebrated for its resilience, talent, and genuine love for basketball. As the community mourns his loss, they also commemorate the indomitable spirit he brought to the game.