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. The news of his demise was confirmed by his daughter, Angey, on her Instagram account.
Early Career and Draft
Wiggins’ entry into the NBA was marked by immediate drama. Drafted by the Indiana Pacers in 1983 with the 23rd pick, he was traded to the Chicago Bulls right away in exchange for Sidney Lowe. Overcoming this initial upheaval, Wiggins began a career that would see him become an integral player on three NBA teams.
Notable Performances
During his NBA tenure, Wiggins experienced several highs, perhaps none more notable than the 1989-90 season. That year, he showcased his scoring prowess by averaging an impressive 15.0 points per game (PPG), along with 4.3 rebounds per game (RPG) on 49% shooting. His contribution extended over 28.1 minutes per game (MPG), illustrating his significant role on the court.
Wiggins also played a pivotal part in the Houston Rockets' 1986 NBA Finals campaign against the Boston Celtics—a series many fans still remember vividly. Although the Rockets fell short, losing to the Celtics in six games, Wiggins’ tenacity and skill left an indelible mark.
Suspension and Comeback
The following year, however, brought a significant setback. Wiggins, alongside teammate Lewis Lloyd, was suspended for two years after failing a drug test. Unlike some, Wiggins chose not to volunteer for treatment, resulting in the full suspension period. Despite this adversity, he made a remarkable return to professional basketball, enjoying his best NBA season post-suspension and continuing his career for several more years.
Enduring Legacy
In total, Wiggins dedicated two decades to professional basketball, establishing a legacy of resilience and talent. His dedication to the game continued to be recognized even after his playing days ended. The basketball community, including the National Basketball Retired Players Association, has acknowledged his impact with heartfelt tributes and condolences.
Mitchell Wiggins’ legacy is further carried forward by 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, a reminder of the personal challenges players often face behind the scenes.
"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," reflects the heartfelt sentiment shared in many tributes. Indeed, Mitchell Wiggins' journey through the highs and lows of professional basketball stands as a testament to his enduring spirit and passion for the sport.