A month after his father's death, Andrew Wiggins provides update on his status for Warriors' next preseason game
Golden State Warriors forward Andrew Wiggins gave an update on his health after his absence in the team's first NBA preseason game. The Warriors took on the LA Clippers on Saturday to start their preseason games but Wiggins was out due to illness.
Wiggins missed the first game and didn't participate in most of the team's practices.
He watched the team from the sidelines as he wore a facemask for protection. In an interview on Tuesday, the one-time All-Star gave an update on his health.
"I'm feeling better," Wiggins said after he coughed. "A lot better than before. I was able to go the full practice.
When asked if he'll be ready for the Warriors' game against the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday, Oct. 9, he said this:
"Not yet. Kinda leaning on the training staff."
Wiggins told the media that he'll wait for the training staff's go signal to start playing in the preseason. Due to his ailment, Wiggins is listed as day-to-day in Golden State's injury report.
In practice, worked out with the other players on the team. Wiggins spent time on the court with Kyle Anderson, Gary Payton II, Moses Moody and Kevon Looney.
"We were just getting our ones in. Working on our game. Iron sharpens iron. We’re there to make each other better," Wiggins said.
It's only been a month since Wiggins' father, Mitchell Wiggins, died at the age of 64. The cause of death wasn't discussed publicly by the family. Even after what happened to his personal life, the first pick of the 2014 NBA draft will work with his team to get ready for the 2024-25 season.
Also read: Steve Kerr drops crucial update on Andrew Wiggins' availability for Warriors preseason opener vs Clippers
Warriors want Andrew Wiggins to take on more responsibility offensively this season
The Warriors are still focused on making the postseason and hopefully contend for the NBA title. That goal might be difficult to achieve since they don't have Klay Thompson after he joined the Dallas Mavericks over the summer. However, the team looks to rely on Andrew Wiggins this season, to take on more responsibilities on offense.
Kerr talked about having high expectations for Wiggins this season and wants him to be aggressive. Thompson's departure could also open chances for Wiggs to help the team on offense.
Wiggins has a chance to redeem himself following his performance last year. During the 2023-24 season, the Canadian forward struggled on offense, averaging 13.2 points, 4.5 rebounds and 1.7 assists per game.
Also read: Andrew Wiggins' sister Angelica remembers late father on his birthday just days after his death