Video: Cavs introduce Andrew Wiggins as 'Mitchell' at press conference
The highly-anticipated Andrew Wiggins Era in Cleveland began with a verbal typo.
Cavaliers television broadcaster Fred McLeod accidentally introduced Wiggins, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2014 NBA draft, as "Mitchell" during an official introductory press conference on Friday. Mitchell Wiggins happens to be Andrew's father, and a former NBA player himself.
"We'd like to, if we can, welcome in the newest member of the Cleveland Cavaliers, along with general manager David Griffin and head coach David Blatt, let's say hello to Mitchell Wiggins."
Realizing the error, McLeod pointed to Mitchell Wiggins, who was in attendance: "Andrew Wiggins. Excuse me. I got dad ... I go back. Mitchell, you want to make a comeback? Andrew Wiggins. Come on, Andrew."
Mitchell Wiggins, 54, was selected by the Pacers with the No. 23 pick in the 1983 draft. A 6-foot-4 guard, he would average 10 points and 3.2 rebounds in six seasons with the Bulls, Rockets and Sixers, but his career was marred by a multi-year suspension for drugs.
All these years later, he was able to watch as Andrew, 19, received a gold No. 21 jersey from the Cavaliers.
''It just gives me closure,'' Mitchell Wiggins said, according to the Associated Press. ''I'm able to let go of maybe some of the things I was feeling when I left the league and I can sleep better now. This is a big moment.''
Andrew Wiggins selected by Cavaliers with No. 1 pick in 2014 NBA draft
Andrew Wiggins, who went one-and-done at Kansas, beat out Duke forward Jabari Parker and Kansas center Joel Embiid to become the No. 1 pick in this year's draft. Well-known among recruiting circles since early in his high school career, Andrew Wiggins is the most highly-touted Canadian prospect in league history.
''I just want to come in, create an impact right off the bat, offensively and defensively, bring the team to the next level and just be a good teammate, be a good part of the organization,'' Andrew Wiggins said on Friday, according to the Associated Press. ''I want to be on the All-Defensive team, be Rookie of the Year, make the All-Star team, all that type of stuff.''
Andrew Wiggins' first day on the job included a visit to the Cleveland Clinic, where the Cavaliers helped unveil a refurbished activity center.
