Mitchell Wiggins was a shooting guard for such NBA teams as the Houston Rockets and Chicago Bulls, as well as the father of current Golden State Warriors star Andrew Wiggins.
- Died: September 9, 2024 (Who else died on September 9?)
- Details of death: Died at the age of 64.
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Mitchell Wiggins’ legacy
During an All-American college basketball career at schools including Florida State University, Wiggins was also a member of the U.S national basketball team that won a silver medal at the 1982 FIBA World Championship. After graduation, he was selected by the Indiana Pacers in the first round of the 1983 NBA Draft. He was traded to the Bulls before the season started, and he played his entire rookie year with the team. Another trade landed Wiggins with the Rockets in 1984.
Wiggins started strong with the Rockets before his NBA career was derailed in 1987. He tested positive for cocaine, a violation of the league’s strict anti-drug policy. Suspended for two full years, Wiggins found spots in other leagues, including with the Continental Basketball Association’s Quad City Thunder. In 1989, having served his suspension, he was reinstated by the Rockets, where he spent one more season.
Wiggins played his final NBA season with the Philadelphia 76ers after signing with them in 1991. Later, he played in the Greek League and other overseas and U.S. leagues. In later years, he coached such teams as the Spearfish Black Hills Heat.
Tributes to Mitchell Wiggins
Full obituary: Bleacher Report
