Mitchell Wiggins, a former NBA player whose career spanned multiple teams and decades, has passed away at the age of 64. The news was confirmed by his daughter, Angey, on her Instagram account, marking the end of a life immersed in basketball at the highest levels of competition.
An NBA Career with Highs and Lows
Wiggins' NBA journey began in 1983 when he was drafted by the Indiana Pacers with the 23rd pick. However, his tenure with the Pacers was short-lived as he was traded to the Chicago Bulls immediately after being drafted, in a deal involving Sidney Lowe. Wiggins’ path through the NBA saw him don the jerseys of the Chicago Bulls, Houston Rockets, and Philadelphia 76ers. During his professional career, he experienced both the peaks of success and the valleys of personal and professional challenges.
One of the highlights of Wiggins' career came with the Houston Rockets during the 1986 NBA Finals. He played a crucial role in helping the Rockets reach the Finals, where they eventually fell to the Boston Celtics in a six-game series. Despite the loss, Wiggins had established himself as a key player in the Rockets' lineup. The following season, however, he faced a major setback.
Suspension and Return
In the years following the 1986 NBA Finals, Wiggins' career was marred by controversy. During the 1987-88 season, both he and teammate Lewis Lloyd were suspended for two years after failing a drug test. Unlike Lloyd, Wiggins chose not to volunteer for treatment, a decision that upheld his two-year suspension. Nevertheless, resilience and determination became the hallmarks of Wiggins' career as he returned to the NBA with vigor after serving his ban.
Upon his return, Wiggins enjoyed the best season of his career. During the 1989-90 NBA season, he averaged 15.0 points per game (PPG) and 4.3 rebounds per game (RPG) while shooting a commendable 49% from the field. He logged 28.1 minutes per game (MPG), demonstrating his ability to bounce back from adversity and contribute significantly to his team.
Legacy and Family
Wiggins' impact on the basketball world extended beyond his own career. Over a professional span of 20 seasons, he left an indelible mark on the teams he played for and the fans who watched him. His legacy also lives on through his son, Andrew Wiggins, who currently plays as a forward for the Golden State Warriors. Known for his athleticism and scoring prowess, Andrew has followed in his father's footsteps, becoming a standout player in the NBA. In 2023, Andrew Wiggins missed 25 games due to personal matters, a reminder that the family's journey in professional basketball continues to be defined by both on-court achievements and personal trials.
A Fond Farewell
The basketball community has come together to mourn the loss of Mitchell Wiggins. Tributes and condolences have poured in, with many recognizing his contributions to the game and his indomitable spirit. The National Basketball Retired Players Association acknowledged his death, highlighting the respect and admiration he earned from fellow players and basketball enthusiasts. As expressed by his daughter Angey, "His daughter, Angey, confirmed his passing on her Instagram account."
In remembering Mitchell Wiggins, the basketball world celebrates a career marked by resilience, talent, and a genuine love for the game. His journey through the NBA, filled with both triumphs and challenges, serves as a testament to his enduring spirit and passion for basketball.
"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," concluded an article honoring his life and legacy.