One of the many rising Canadians in the NBA, Andrew Wiggins was making headlines long before he put on a Minnesota Timberwolves jersey. To help his growth, in the middle of high school he transferred to the USA for tougher competition and to showcase his talents in front of a broader audience. It obviously helped. During his senior year in 2013 he was named the Naismith Prep Player of the Year, became the first Canadian Gatorade National Player of the Year and was named Mr. Basketball USA. The #1 prospect decided to take his talents to Kansas. A decent collegiate year, there was no surprise when he declared for the NBA Draft after his 1 and only season at Kansas. Although Jabari Parker made a strong case the Cleveland Cavaliers chose Wiggins with the #1 pick during the 2014 Draft.
But the thought of a Kyrie and Wiggins backcourt was just a “what if” dream as LeBron decided to come home. And rather then wait for the budding star to grow he was dealt to the Minnesota Timberwolves for essentially Kevin Love along with fellow Canadian, and fellow #1 draft pick, Anthony Bennet. Although he’s only the second #1 draft pick to be traded before his first game he was able to lock down a major shoe/apparel deal. He became adidas’ highest paid rookie athlete and a natural choice since he wore the 3 stripes at Kansas. With lower expectation and younger team in Minnesota he has grown to be the leader with less pressure on his shoulders. However that hasn’t stopped adidas from having him showcase the Crazylight Boost since his NBA debut.
Throughout his strong first season he wore the Crazylight Boost which led into the Crazylight Boost 2015 and the recently unveiled adidas Crazylight Boost 2.5. Still growing as a player, Wiggins celebrates another birthday today. It’s hard to believe the star is barely old enough to drink, so imagine how strong his game will be in a few years. If he continues adding more bulk and strength to his frame and works on that outside shot it would come as no surprise to see him with a signature model soon. Happy bday Andrew, you have the potential to be one of the faces of adidas for many years.
Aaron Nojima
Robbie Falchi