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The Early Years
Andrew Wiggins was born on February 23, 1995, in Toronto, Canada. He grew up in a family of basketball players, with both his parents having played the sport at a high level. Wiggins started playing basketball at a young age and quickly showed his potential.
As he got older, Wiggins became more serious about basketball and began to focus on improving his game. He attended high school at Huntington Prep in West Virginia, where he was named the Gatorade National Player of the Year in 2013.
The NBA Draft
In 2014, Wiggins was selected as the first overall pick in the NBA draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers. However, he was soon traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves in a deal that brought Kevin Love to Cleveland.
Wiggins quickly established himself as one of the top young players in the league, earning the Rookie of the Year award in 2015. He continued to improve each year, becoming a valuable scorer and defender for the Timberwolves.
Religious Beliefs
One aspect of Wiggins’ life that is not often discussed is his religious beliefs. Wiggins is a Jehovah’s Witness, a Christian denomination that is known for its strict code of conduct and refusal to participate in certain activities.
As a Jehovah’s Witness, Wiggins does not celebrate holidays such as Christmas or birthdays. He also does not participate in the singing of the national anthem before games, as the religion prohibits the showing of loyalty to any country or government.
Handling Criticism
Wiggins has faced criticism for his religious beliefs and how they affect his basketball career. Some have questioned whether his refusal to participate in certain activities could hurt his team’s chemistry or make him a less effective player.
However, Wiggins has remained steadfast in his beliefs and has not allowed the criticism to affect him. He has continued to play at a high level and has even spoken publicly about his faith, saying that it gives him strength and helps him stay focused on his goals.
Off-Court Activities
When he’s not playing basketball, Wiggins is often involved in charitable activities. He has worked with organizations such as UNICEF and the Special Olympics, and has donated money to various causes.
Wiggins has also been active in promoting basketball in Canada, where the sport is not as popular as it is in the United States. He has organized camps and clinics for young players, and has spoken about the importance of developing the game in his home country.
Looking Ahead
As Wiggins enters the 2023 NBA season, he will be looking to build on his past successes and continue to improve his game. He will also continue to be a role model for young players, both on and off the court.
Despite the challenges he has faced due to his religious beliefs, Wiggins has remained committed to his faith and has not wavered in his convictions. He is a true testament to the power of faith, and a reminder that one’s beliefs can be a source of strength and inspiration.
