Golden State Warriors shooting guard Andrew Wiggins has faced significant challenges both personally and professionally over the past few years, particularly following the passing of his father, Mitchell Wiggins. The transition from being one of the quieter stars on his team to confronting deep emotional turmoil has not been easy, but with the support of his longtime partner, Mychal Johnson, he has begun to navigate this difficult chapter.
Andrew Wiggins embarked on his professional basketball career after proving himself at the collegiate level with the Kansas Jayhawks. He was drafted first overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2014 and quickly earned accolades, including the NBA Rookie of the Year award. He transitioned to playing for the Golden State Warriors, where he has since won an NBA Championship and been named to the NBA All-Star team.
Behind Wiggins' success on the court has been the steadfast support of Mychal Johnson, who shares his passion for basketball. The couple met during their high school years, with Wiggins attending Huntington Prep and Johnson at nearby St. Joseph High School. Johnson went on to play at the University of Notre Dame, where she excelled before injuries curtailed her collegiate career. Wiggins often speaks with admiration about Johnson, saying, "She's been amazing just being there raising our kids to the perfect children... A lot of respect goes to her because she makes stuff happen."
The couple’s family has expanded significantly. They welcomed their first daughter, Amyah, in October 2018, followed by another daughter, Alayah, born in April 2021. Johnson often refers to her daughters as her "mini's" and "besties," joyfully capturing milestones like the start of school. The excitement of welcoming their third child, confirmed by Johnson via social media, adds to their family's joy.
While many recognized Wiggins as quiet and introspective, this demeanor masked the strains he has endured, especially concerning his father's prolonged illness. Wiggins took significant time off to care for his father, who battled health issues for two years. Warriors coach Steve Kerr noted, "It was brutal... to see someone you love, your father, suffering for such a long time... you can image how...that would impact your daily existence." After his father's death on September 9, 2024, Wiggins faced overwhelming grief but has since found solace.
The days following Mitchell's passing were challenging for Wiggins as he wrestled with his emotions and the expectations of professional basketball. Kerr observed Wiggins’ decline during his father's illness, stating, "You could see it in his play, but just in his demeanor." The deep bond between father and son was evident, as Mitchell served as both father and coach throughout Wiggins’ sports career, instilling values of hard work and family first.
Wiggins’ statistics reflect his struggles over the past season, significantly lower than his career averages. Last season, he averaged just 13.2 points per game, the lowest since his rookie year. Yet, as the current season progresses, signs of his return to form are clear, with averages improving to about 17.3 points and showing glimpses of the defensively active player he once was. The Warriors strive to compete again, and Wiggins’ resurgence on the court can significantly impact their performance.
The community surrounding Wiggins—both fans and teammates—has been remarkably supportive. Many did not know the extent of his family's battles, and those close to him respected his desire for privacy. Wiggins was never afraid to prioritize his family over his career, illustrating the values deeply embedded by his father, who emphasized connection and love. "There’s nothing like it," Wiggins said about being “a girl dad,” illustrating how his children bring him unparalleled joy.
For Wiggins, the challenges reinforced the importance of family and the support he receives. The Warriors organization embraced him during these tumultuous times, affirming his worth as both player and person. "This is top notch... I don’t think it gets anybetter than this," Wiggins reflected on playing for Golden State.
Yet, perhaps nothing symbolizes Andrew Wiggins’ resilience and newfound peace like the recent developments with his personal life and his growing family. This season presents not only the challenge of professional basketball but also the joy of embracing fatherhood again with the impending arrival of their son, the couple's first son. Their daughters eagerly anticipate the new family member, making this time of change and growth incredibly rewarding.
The legacy of Mitchell Wiggins lives on as Andrew steps forward as both basketball player and family man. "I think about my dad every day... that's how it’s going to be, forever and always," Wiggins stated about how his father influenced him. The bond remains strong, and as he navigates this new life phase, Andrew Wiggins carries lessons from his father and the love of his family close to his heart, guiding him through the highs and lows of life. This holiday season, amid competing interests in basketball and family celebrations, Wiggins will certainly carry the spirit and teachings of his father as he plays out his season.
His quiet demeanor combines with the heart of family-first values, showcasing how, at 30 years old, Wiggins continues to evolve, remembering his father’s lessons as he embraces this new chapter with love, spirit, and resilience.
