Mitchell Wiggins, a former NBA player remembered for his time with the Chicago Bulls, Houston Rockets, and Philadelphia 76ers, has passed away at the age of 64. His daughter, Angey Wiggins, confirmed his passing on her Instagram account, adding a personal touch to the public announcement.
Early Career and Trades
Wiggins' journey in the NBA began when he was drafted by the Indiana Pacers in 1983 with the 23rd overall pick. However, his tenure with the Pacers was short-lived as he was immediately traded to the Chicago Bulls for Sidney Lowe. This trade marked the beginning of a career that would see Wiggins become a solid contributor on several teams.
Impact with the Houston Rockets
One of the highlights of Wiggins’ career came during his time with the Houston Rockets. He played in the 1986 NBA Finals, where the Rockets faced off against the Boston Celtics. Despite his contributions, the Rockets fell to the Celtics in six games. This period was a testament to Wiggins' skills and resilience, marking him as a crucial player in high-stakes scenarios.
Suspension and Return
Wiggins' career was not without its challenges. Following the 1986 Finals, Wiggins and his teammate Lewis Lloyd were suspended for two years after failing a drug test. Unlike some players who might have opted for treatment to negate such a suspension, Wiggins chose not to volunteer for treatment, facing the full term of his ban.
Upon his return, Wiggins demonstrated remarkable tenacity. He had his best NBA season following his suspension, 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) during the 1989-90 season. This performance underscored his ability to bounce back and maintain a high level of play.
A Long and Varied Career
Across his professional basketball journey, Wiggins played for a total of 20 seasons. His career, marked by resilience and dedication, spanned various leagues and teams, each stint adding to his rich legacy in the sport.
A New Generation
Mitchell Wiggins' legacy continues through his son, Andrew Wiggins, who currently plays as a forward for the Golden State Warriors. In 2023, Andrew Wiggins missed 25 games due to personal matters, a period that surely added to the emotional weight carried by the Wiggins family in light of Mitchell’s health and eventual passing.
Tributes and Condolences
The basketball community has come together to honor Mitchell Wiggins, with tributes and condolences pouring in from various corners, including the National Basketball Retired Players Association. "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," states the article's concluding remarks. This sentiment is shared widely, highlighting the respect and admiration Wiggins garnered throughout his career.
Mitchell Wiggins leaves behind a complex but poignant legacy, defined by his ups and downs, his resilience in the face of adversity, and his enduring love for basketball. His journey through the NBA and beyond serves as both a cautionary tale and a celebration of what it means to overcome obstacles and continue pursuing one’s passion.