OKC Thunder's Aaron Wiggins Has the Perfect Role Player Mentality

The Thunder's gadget guy off the bench will be a critical spark plug for the team next season.

May 11, 2024; Dallas, Texas, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Aaron Wiggins (21) shoots as Dallas Mavericks center Daniel Gafford (21) and Dallas Mavericks forward Tim Hardaway Jr. (10) defend during the second half during game three of the second round for the 2024 NBA playoffs at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images / Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Ever since Aaron Wiggins stepped foot in Oklahoma City, he has exceeded expectations. What started as a late round flier has turned into a crucial rotation player for the top-seeded Thunder.

The Maryland product has turned himself into the perfect role player for Oklahoma City and does exactly what the team asks of him. He has improved his slashing abilities and turned into a top tier 3-point shooter. With the current roster, the Thunder loves to have players they view as connectors, and Wiggins is just one of those guys. He’s able to connect lineups on the floor, move the ball, and play smart basketball.

“It changes game to game,” Wiggins said about what he brings to the floor. “There are a number of things that the team may be lacking, but I just try to be prepared for whatever situation I'm put in. Coming into the game, I'm not looking for or thinking about maybe scoring a certain number of points or anything. 

“I'm going in there with the mindset to help the team get the outcome that we want, which is a win. Regardless of what that looks like, I'm willing to go out there and put forth my best foot and hopefully help my team get a W.”

Wiggins had his most efficient NBA season by far, becoming a crucial piece to the Thunder’s bench. He averaged 6.9 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.1 assists while shooting an impressive 56.2% from the floor and 49.2% from 3-point range.

Oklahoma City is lucky to have a player like Wiggins. No matter who the team adds down the line, Wiggins has a skillset that will always fit. Every contender is looking for players like him.

“Just kind of understanding," Wiggins said. "I think from a different perspective, my game is fitting. I think you could plug me into a number of different systems, and I would be able to find a way to contribute in a winning way to a team.

“Regardless of the trends or the ways that are going around the league in terms of what's looked at basketball-wise, you know, being a guy that can kind of mold into fitting and helping his team win. I don't know. I don't really look at everything outside of what we have going on in our system. I just try to make sure that I'm there for my team.”

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