NBA Veteran Mitchell Wiggins Passes Away at 64
The basketball community is mourning the loss of Mitchell Wiggins, a former NBA player who had stints with the Chicago Bulls, Houston Rockets, and Philadelphia 76ers. Wiggins passed away at the age of 64, as confirmed by his daughter Angey on her Instagram account.
Wiggins was a notable figure in the NBA during the 1980s and early 1990s. Drafted by the Indiana Pacers in 1983 with the 23rd overall pick, Wiggins was quickly traded to the Chicago Bulls in exchange for Sidney Lowe. His professional career was marked by moments of brilliance, resilience, and challenges that tested his commitment to the sport he loved.
Career Highlights and Challenges
Perhaps one of the most remarkable phases of Wiggins' career was his time with the Houston Rockets. During the 1986 NBA Finals, Wiggins and the Rockets faced off against the formidable Boston Celtics. Despite their efforts, the Rockets fell to the Celtics in a six-game series. The following season, however, brought unforeseen challenges. Wiggins, alongside teammate Lewis Lloyd, was suspended for two years after failing a drug test. Wiggins opted not to volunteer for treatment, which might have negated the ban, leading to a prolonged absence from the court.
On his return, Wiggins demonstrated remarkable resolve and tenacity, producing his best season. In the 1989-90 NBA season, he averaged 15.0 points per game and 4.3 rebounds per game, shooting a commendable 49% from the field while playing 28.1 minutes per game. His performance during this period was a testament to his unwavering dedication and love for basketball.
Personal Tributes and Legacy
Mitchell Wiggins' journey in professional basketball spanned an impressive 20 seasons, during which he left an indelible mark on the sport. Beyond his personal achievements on the court, his legacy continues through his son, Andrew Wiggins, who currently plays for the Golden State Warriors. In a difficult year for the Wiggins family, Andrew missed 25 games in 2023 due to personal matters, a reflection of the close bonds and personal struggles that define the lives of professional athletes.
The basketball community has come together to honor Wiggins' memory. Tributes and condolences have poured in, notably from the National Basketball Retired Players Association, recognizing his contributions to the game. "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," as highlighted in one tribute.
Wiggins' passing is a poignant reminder of the highs and lows that professional athletes often navigate. His career, marked by moments of triumph and adversity, serves as an enduring narrative of the power of resilience and passion for the game.
Mitchell Wiggins will be remembered not only for his athletic prowess but also for his unwavering spirit and the legacy he has left behind for future generations of basketball players. As tributes continue to flow, the sports world reflects on the life of a player who gave his all, both on and off the court.