Mitchell Wiggins, a former NBA player and father of Golden State Warriors forward Andrew Wiggins, passed away at the age of 64. Wiggins had a successful career in the NBA, playing for teams like the Chicago Bulls, Houston Rockets, and Philadelphia 76ers. His daughter, Angey, confirmed the news of his passing on her Instagram account, leading to an outpouring of condolences from fans and fellow players.
Early Career and NBA Success
Wiggins was drafted by the Indiana Pacers in 1983 but was immediately traded to the Chicago Bulls for Sidney Lowe. He went on to have a solid six-season career in the NBA, showcasing his skills as a shooting guard. His best season came in 1989-90 when he averaged 15.0 points per game and 4.3 rebounds on 49% shooting in 28.1 minutes per game. Wiggins was known for his ability to score from the midrange and drive to the basket, despite not being as tall or athletic as his son, Andrew.
Challenges and Comeback
In 1987, Wiggins faced a major setback when he, along with teammate Lewis Lloyd, was suspended for two years after failing a drug test. Despite the suspension, Wiggins made a remarkable comeback to the NBA and had his best season after being away from the league for two years. This comeback showcased his resilience and determination to succeed in the face of adversity. Wiggins’ perseverance and work ethic were truly commendable, and he continued to make a mark in the basketball world.
Family and Legacy
Andrew Wiggins, following in his father’s footsteps, has become a prominent NBA player in his own right. The younger Wiggins has had an impressive career with the Minnesota Timberwolves and currently plays for the Golden State Warriors. Andrew has faced his own challenges, taking multiple leaves of absence to deal with personal matters. Despite the criticisms he faced, Andrew always had the support of his family, including his father, Mitchell.
Mitchell Wiggins’ passing marks the end of an era for the Wiggins family and the basketball community. His legacy as a talented NBA player and a loving father will live on through his children and the impact he had on the sport. The NBA world mourns the loss of a true basketball legend, and our thoughts and prayers are with the Wiggins family during this difficult time.